r e f l e c t i o n s . . .

untitled post

2011-05-04T20:57:00.002-05:00

I used to ponder what I'd do if I had to go to war. Killing a foreign soldier on the battlefield would have been tough for me. I would have done it, but it would have came with a heavy price on my conscience.

However, I'm pretty sure I could have killed b.l. Killing a counterpart soldier, who I have no beef with and who was drafted into a war and is just, like me, doing his duty is one thing. Killing Hitler, b.l., and the like is a different pot of gumbo all together. I think I'd sleep pretty good that night. Some may argue that it's not the Christian thing to do. Maybe so, but we all fall short, and that's the hill I'd fall short on.

Point 2. It's been argued that we shouldn't celebrate his death. Are you kidding me? Okay, I know what could be said: Jesus died for him too and all life is precious. Granted, but b.l. through his free will choices, chose to deserve a bullet to the head, chest, groin, etc.

Also, I'm not sure those who celebrated were necessarily celebrating a scumbag's death as much as they were releasing pent up anxiety and nervousness. Many Americans have been on edge for 10 years. They finally got a chance to let out a breath. Not an important issue for me.

Note: I must apologize. I shouldn't have called b.l. a scumbag. That's an unfair and horrible insult to bags full of scum.

Mid Life Crisis . . .

2011-03-24T19:14:00.005-06:00

Averted.

Emotional toll . . .

2010-12-08T21:48:00.002-06:00

To write from a character's point of view, you have to occupy his mind for a time. Sometimes, as with my characters: Jonathon and Kayla, that can be a good thing. These are good, decent people. There are times, necessarily, when you have to put them through turmoil. And since you occupy their mind, you put yourself through turmoil. With good characters doing decent things, even through tragedy, this can and may even be beneficial to the writer, but also emotionally draining.

On the flip side is the murky bog that are the minds of the bad guys. In my novel there resides a pretty evil nemeses who does numerous despicable acts. One of which is child molestation. I must say, I wrote these scenes with trepidation. I hesitated before putting myself in this deviant mind, but ultimately, it's the only way to write from his pov. But I did have to take periodic breaks from this perverted mind meld.

I started a new novel with a scene where the good guy comes across a scenario where a sicko is trying to kidnap a little girl so he can what else . . . rape her. I guess I use the child molestation for my bad guys because what better way to garner hatred for the guy. I think these scenes work very well---they may, if I may be so bold, even be powerful. The problem is I'm not sure how many more times I can do it. I know I don't ever want to get to a place where it's easy or comfortable to write them.

I assume I'm not the only one, but I'd be curious to hear what other writers have to say. Does this happen to you?

He said, She said . . .

2010-11-24T17:55:00.002-06:00

So I'm at my first conference and I see an editor with several books on his table. These are the books that he'd personally worked on. I start thumbing through the books to see if this editor is someone I'd want to schedule a meeting with when I spot a book I'd recently read.

This book is one that caused me some consternation. It was replete with one of the great blights on publishing: synonyms for said. i.e. he joked, he retorted, he exclaimed, etc. etc. etc. Of course we've been told, lectured, advised, commanded, informed, and warned not to do this.

Now personally, I don't like these either. They bother me. I worked hard on using action beats instead of dialogue tags and using only said when necessary. Besides, not only don't I like them, it's universally agreed upon within the publishing industry that this practice is universally frowned upon and better left on the ash heap of history.

But here it sits. A published novel whose word count owes a substantial debt to this plague.

I decided to take this opportunity and ask this professional's advice. After all, he's an editor of a major publishing house. So I open the book, point out a few examples, and asked him for a definitive answer to this puzzle. He looked me straight in the eye and said "We don't really care about all that."

Wow. Tell that to the agents and the how-to books. (yes I know you really can't tell that to a book, but that's how I wanted to write the sentence, so get over yourself. : )

Ummm . . . what?

2010-11-17T18:10:00.002-06:00

So I'm at a conference. I'm done with my three editor meetings and I'm looking for lunch tables of possible editors I want to pitch to. For those of you who don't know, at some conferences, tables are "hosted" by an editor or agent. This gives you a chance to possibly pitch to someone who you didn't have an appointment with. I personally don't like pitching at these tables. There's usually 8-10 people who are pushing themselves on these poor souls who are trying to eat.

So my strategy is I don't pitch unless they ask and they usually will. If they don't then that means they didn't want me to and I'm fine with that. At one of these tables, hosted by an editor, who said he was representing both fiction and non, asked me about my script and what kind of response I've gotten at my meetings. I told him (gender neutral) and he then asked me to send it to him. (Can't remember if it was a partial or full)

The response was pretty quick and he gave me a few paragraphs of advice which I thought were pretty thoughtful and I did appreciate his time. He did write that he wanted to encourage me because my writing was almost there. That's great to hear.

However, he told me I should write stories unique to my neck of the woods, that would grow organically from the area, and gave me examples. Now this would have been good advice if I were writing that To Kill a Mockingbird "great American novel". But I write suspense with a supernatural element. He said that my story should be set ANYWHERE but south Louisiana. As though, my story couldn't happen where I set it. Ummm. . . . What?

He then finished with and I'll slightly paraphrase: "I'm not even a fiction editor so take these thoughts with a grain of salt."

Ummm . . . consider it done.

So I my script got rejected by a publisher's non-fiction editor. What if the fiction editor would have liked it?

Instance 2

2010-11-12T20:07:00.003-06:00

Confused? See the last post.

This one's pretty tame and similar to the last one. This time I'll use gender neutral "she" to refer to this editor.

At my first conference, I had 3 editor meetings. All three asked for a submission. Two fulls and a "3 chapter" request. All three meetings went well. In fact, they went great. The one that I thought went best was led to the "3 chapter" request. Of the two fulls, one publisher decided shortly later to drop their adult fiction line thus my submission was no longer appropriate. Tough break. The other led to pretty good experience. The publisher gave some great feedback, asked me to rewrite, I did, they considered for a while, and eventually passed. Really good experience. Because although they did passed, their interest and feedback provided me with some great affirmation that I was on the right track. Now about the 3 chapter request . . .

Still haven't heard. (And, no I don't expect to.) Don't worry. This doesn't bother me. But I do find the following curious. I ran into this editor at another conference several months later. I attended a class by this editor. Really good class, great info. I stayed after class to ask a follow up question to one of the topics brought up during the class. She answered and I then asked her about the submission. I politely asked if, as is quite common, a "no response" equals a "no" response. She assured me that it didn't and that she always responds. Always. Still haven't heard from her.

This is not a criticism of this editor. I really like her. These things happen. She also told me that if I didn't hear from her for a while to resubmit. I didn't resubmit because I had a couple of agents interested and decided it would be better if I let the agent submit to this editor. By the time interested agent after interested agent showed interest and passed, a couple of years had passed and I decided that too much time had gone by to take up the resubmit offer.

I know. Pretty tame, huh. I promise the next one is more interesting.

I am not a coward . . .

2010-11-09T19:55:00.003-06:00

As is probably obvious, I resist the urge to criticize the CBA. (publishers, editors, agents) The fact is the CBA is people. People take criticism personally even when it's the institution not the individual being criticized. I feel it is not practical to destroy possible future relationships by publicly calling someone out. Don't misunderstand, I'm not saying those who do are wrong. That's a personal decision and about half the time, they're right.

With that said, I have had a few instances that have left me scratching my head. I have long avoided writing about them here, because I don't want it to be obvious who I'm talking about. I've said all that to say that I'm gonna start posting these instances in such a way that doesn't sound like I'm beating up on someone or being a whiny baby. Let me know if I don't succeed.

Instance #1 (gender neutral "he" used throughout)

An agent who asked for a full and who has publicly boasted how he always responds within 3 months to a full, encourages people to send follow up emails after so many months (6 if memory serves) without worrying about upsetting him. Well after 10 months I sent a follow up email. I was grateful to be considered and took him at his word. In fact, I waited longer than he said. My email was simple. I just stated the dates of submission, request for full, submission of full, time elapsed, and my appreciation for their time. The response was a little snarky: I'll paraphrase -- if you don't want to be considered any longer, just say so. Because of his continuing boastful dedication to responding timely and being considerate of us unpub's time and dedication, I expected him to say something like: Oh, sorry about that, I do try to respond but some slip through the cracks . . . blah blah blah, I pass or blah, blah, blah, give me some time look at it . . .

Well, it's been 2 years --- No response. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind that the agent has apparently passed. It does strike me that this person brags that he doesn't do this.

What do you think? Should I post things like this or keep my keyboard shut?

random political thoughts. . .

2010-11-04T18:37:00.008-06:00

. . . from an introspective Conservative.

I like Sarah Palin but I don't think she'll ever be president. I personally can't take her accent. (I know that may sound crazy coming from someone with a Cajun accent.) She just doesn't sound Presidential enough. It is possible to sound like a regular American and a President. Reagan proved that. I'm not saying she should become robotic and monotone, but she should back off the Palinisms a little.

Before the election I predicted that if the Repubs win control of congress, President Obama would be guaranteed re-election. My reasoning was that it would follow the same model as the Clinton years. The 94-96 Republican congress balanced the budget and turned the economy around and Clinton got the credit and won re-election. But now I'm not sure. Dems still have the presidency and the senate. The house won't be able to control spending like they want to so unless the economy turns around despite what the government does, the President will not be re-elected.

Note to Shawn Hannity: Romney cannot win. He may be the most qualified candidate who ran last time, but a mormon cannot win. Evangelicals don't delineate between casual mormons and devout mormons. To most Christians, if you're a mormon, it means you believe in some crazy things. This is an insurmountable barrier. Unless . . . well if you want to know, ask in the comments.

Note about Hannity: He makes conservatives look bad. I really wish I could replace him. He does to the dems all the things he accused them of doing to the reps. He is not fair in the slightest. Completely blinded by his ideology. His only "talent" appears to be repeating what he hears Rush say without being entertaining. There are enough legitimate things to criticize the pres and dems for without castigating them for every innocuous thing they do.

I truly believe that if the President, while jogging by a burning house, ran inside, saved a puppy, and helped put out the fire, Hannity's narrative would be:

President caught at the seen of a fire molesting an animal and destroying public property with a water hose. The President is also a known smoker who carries a lighter. Authorities have not ruled out arson in the matter.

New kitchen

2010-11-02T20:57:00.004-06:00

See I really was busy.

Wow . . .

2010-10-29T21:54:00.002-05:00

Almost six months.

Six months and I haven't done any writing. Things are starting to settle down and I'm hoping to start again soon. I started playing music (guitar) in church again.

I say again because it's been, with a couple exceptions, 15 or 16 yrs since I last played with a worship band. I had to quit playing because my left ear suffered some damage. So much so that I had to stop attending church. It's not that I couldn't hear, but any loud noise--even clapping--caused a lot of pain. I had to wear an ear plug for a year while my ear slowly healed. Right when I stopped wearing the plug, a transformer blew in my ear as I walked out of a local drug store. Another year of pain a ear plugs.

I have not been able to attend concerts, wedding receptions, church services, or any other noisy venue for 15 years. Two months ago I realized that my ear hadn't hurt in a few months. It dawned on my that I was listening to the radio louder than usual. I decided to attend church where the real test--live drums and bass--resided. No pain. I then inquired about playing in the worship band and was welcomed. So far, so good. I still wear the ear plug, but I haven't had any problems. I even played one Sunday without the plug and it really didn't hurt although there was some discomfort.

It's been a long time since I've played. Don't know any of these new fangled songs and I'm definitely rusty, but it's a blessing to be able to serve in that capacity once again. I just hope I'm not causing damage to the ears of those who have to listen.

Catching up . . .

2010-05-17T20:38:00.004-05:00

I guess you've noticed I haven't posted in a while.

Excu..., I mean reasons:

1. Buying a house. Should be closing shortly.
2. see # 1.

Also, I've reached a point where I have to do some more research on possible agents to query. I've been fortunate to have some great responses, but unfortunately I've had no takers.

Request for fulls and compliments about my writing-- even when they include a "but"-- are great and I truly appreciate them, but in the end, it still means my manuscript is not gonna be published as of yet.

I don't have a second novel finished, so it will be a while before I can start querying anew with a fresh script.

In the meantime, I just finished my version of The Scream by Edvard Munch.

I call it the Yell.

One man's flaw is another man's vice . . .apparently

2010-03-25T21:14:00.003-06:00

I've been purposefully not posting about writing. I was hoping to have a book out by now and thereby have more gravitas on the subject. However . . .

The insistence of having flawed characters has either been mis-interpreted or incorrectly taught. At least in my opinion. It seems that many translate having a flawed character as having a character with a vice. Why can't novels have a really good person as the lead character? Some say it's unrealistic. Hogwash. I've known some wonderful people in my life and I love reading about good people. They hardly ever come out on top in real life. At least they can prevail in fiction. It may be the only thing keeping me sane. They definitely don't make a novel less appealing. Dean Koontz's stories are filled with good, decent protags and I'm pretty sure he's sells a few books.

I think this idea needs to be tweeked. It's not a flawless character you should avoid. It's an invincible one. Kryptonite is not superman's flaw, it's his vulnerability. Good, moral, decent characters with vulnerabilities are my favorite. They play by the rules and the antags don't. So your lead character's flaw (vulnerability) could be that he's too trusting for instance. Antags can take advantage of that. We want to read about characters who follow their morals, play by the golden rule and still beat the bad guy.

With that said, sometimes an invincible character works. See James Bond, Jason Bourne, Rambo. But I think it's for the same reason. Readers (viewers) want to see the good guy triumph in a world where they usually don't.

Watermelons for sale . . .

2010-03-13T20:51:00.004-06:00

I'm not a big Dan Rather fan, but you northerners and city folk have got to relax.

In the south, watermelons are sold on the side of the road. And strawberries, oranges, field peas, etc. And in Louisiana: Shrimp. Also, we love to use saying such as "He could sell ice cubes to an eskimo" and the like.

Now I know if a conservative said it, he or she would get no benefit of the doubt and all hell would be breaking loose. But we conservatives are supposed to be better than that. The weird thing is that it's liberals who seemed the most taken aback by the comment. Well, they did creat the p.c. monster.

Btw, next time we make up a fake stereotype, can we pick something less delicious than fried chicken and watermelon. I can't get enough of either and neither can my fellow white southern brethren.

p.s. If you've never tried it, put a little salt on your watermelon. It's like a party in your mouth. It's also very refreshing on a hot day.

Wow, watermelon is like the bacon of fruit. I can't stop thinking about it. Hmmm. I wonder what bacon wrapped watermelon would taste like?

Avoiding absolutes . . .

2010-03-04T20:59:00.006-06:00

I have been accused early and often as being opinionated. I rarely sit on the fence and almost compulsive in letting people know what I think. But when it comes to Biblical interpretation I avoid declaring absolutes which aren't clearly spelled out. Which can be problematic with my Christian brethren because the standard for "clearly spelled out" is a moving target to say the least.

I usually avoid these topics because it can cause strife with my fellow Christians who don't apply the same standard I apply to secondary theological issues. Many declare you lost or damned if you disagree on a peripheral issue. Usually because they have made it the cornerstone of their salvation foundation. I don't condemn (nor am I allowed to) anyone for disagreeing with me on a secondary issue. I may give them my opinion which they may mistake as such, but I try to do so with kindness and, more importantly, respect. Unfortunately, I'm not always afforded the same measure.

For instance: I don't speak in tongues. I have studied the issue and do not believe there is enough evidence to declare today's utterances the Biblical utterances. But hey, it's not absolute. I could be wrong. But since it's not absolute, I'd rather contract to essential Christian doctrine than expand beyond it. I do believe in the gift of tongues (languages) for the Apostles in preaching the Gospel because it is clearly spelled out.

Now, keep in mind, I don't hold anything against people who do speak in tongues. An acquaintance of mine once declared it demonic and strongly suggested I leave the church I was attending (and playing guitar in the worship band in the youth group for). I defended my tongue uttering friends by assuring this person that they believed in essential Christian doctrine and are definitely not demonic.

On the other hand, I've had tongue speakers declare that I'm not receiving the fullness of the Holy Spirit.

This pastor of the aforementioned church who would declare God's presence in our church only if a majority of the congregation were speaking in tongues. It was not only a litmus test but a measuring stick. Sort of like a God decibel meter. This goes against "where two or more are gathered." Of course, you can always go non absolute and claim the Bible writers left out the inferred "where two or more are gathered (and speak in tongues.)"

Now I know that those who do speak in tongues may be able to give what they claim is an absolute interpretation of the issue to back their beliefs, but I don't see it. However, they are still my family in Christ and do not deserve to be denigrated.

Side question: Do you think someone who speaks in tongues would now be hesitant to buy my novel (if published)?

poeparee

2010-03-02T18:14:00.002-06:00

--The Saints superbowl euphoria is still going strong. Pat on the back for us: victory parade - 800,000 people, no burned police cars, riots, or looting.

Special shoutout to everyone who thought Brees was washed up when he hurt his shoulder and was shown the door in San Diego. I spent the first off season re-assuring my fellow fans that Brees was the answer. I never could understand why the Chargers kept looking for a QB when they had Brees. So he ain’t 6’4”, 220, with a 80 yd bullet pass. He’s a football player. I’ll take a football player like Brees or Flutie over a spec sheet player ( Jeff George ) anyday.

--For those of you who’ve read Tosca Lee’s Havah, I joked with her that I was working on a companion volume titled Adam. The same story from the male perspective. All I’ve got is the first line: It’s her fault….. Can’t really think of anything else to say.

That was a joke. I don’t blame Eve for Adam’s decision. The Bible says Adam was not deceived.

Actually, I love the idea. A scene by scene (almost) Adam version of Havah.

--I’m very hard to offend, but two words do cause me momentary involuntarily pause: the F-word and the N-word. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t stop reading and write the author a nasty gram. And I’ve uttered these words too many times in my life. The N-word, though my least favorite word in the English language, is necessary sometimes in novels. See Athol Dickson’s River Rising. (if memory serves)

--Just got a letter from the child I sponsor through Compassion. There was a drawing of a butterfly on it. For those of you who’ve read my novel, you can see why this caught my attention.

Get your ticket before it's too late . . .

2010-02-24T21:04:00.003-06:00

I saw one of the best movies I've seen in a long time last night: The Book of Eli. Great performances and a great story. Not only is it a great movie, but (to use CBA debate venacular) it's one of the best Christian movies I've ever seen.

I personally didn't mind the language. It wasn't gratuitous or jolting, but it will prevent alot of people from the evangelical community from seeing it and that's a shame -- at least when it comes to ticket sales. This is a great movie with great commentaries on the Christian walk and the effect of Christianity on the social political aspects of the human condition.

The only drawback is that I was working on a very similar story for a novel. Foiled again. Now people will say "hey, he got that from The Book of Eli." They'll never know I thought about it two years ago. Oh well.

Ruminations on the whole Tiger thing . . .

2010-02-23T20:19:00.002-06:00

First a thought: My golf game has been awful lately. Maybe I should get married and cheat on my wife.

Tiger did not make a "mistake". His was a pre-meditated willful pattern of behavior.

Apparently I'm not human. I keep hearing variations of the phrase "proves he's human". I have never cheated on anyone: wife, girlfriend, even crushes. So I guess I'm not human. So what am I? Hmmm . . . quite the conundrum.

I've always been a reluctant Tiger fan. He is an incredible talent, but I've never liked the way he's treated the fans. I even rationalized it: That's just his personality. He's just trying to remain focused. etc. I've always theorized that he had an elitist streak. So I'll give him credit for admitting it in his apology speech. He seemed genuinely humbled. I hope this carries over to the course. It's the only way I'll ever pull for him again.

Sidenote: He could learn alot from Phil Mickelson. He signs all autographs, poses for photos, and even talks to the fans. Believe it or not, most golfers act like the fans are bothering them. At the first pro golf tournament I attended, Phil thanked me for being there.

Tiger signs no autographs and doesn't even look at the fans. I don't mind him ignoring me, but little kids. Come on.

Is it just me?

2010-02-03T21:34:00.002-06:00

Am I the only one who thinks that Carrie Prejean is a lousy role model for Christian women (and girls)?

I imagine the reasoning to the contrary goes something like this: I know her almost naked body is splashed all over television and she got breast implants so she could use her sexuality to become famous, but at least she claims to be a Christian conservative so we'll look the other way. On second thought, we'll forget by staring at her.

My latest . . .

2010-01-04T06:00:00.002-06:00

This is a rather crude interpretation of church on an island in Lake Bled in Slovenia.

I say crude because it's not the most accurate reproduction, but it's close. Besides, if I wanted it to be exact I could have posted a photo.

Get over it! (but wait 30 seconds.)

2010-01-02T13:42:00.006-06:00

Well it happened again. I just read the first 50 pages of a novel that was to put it bluntly: Terrible. I really don't like saying that because I know how hard it is. But in this instance, it didn't even seem like the writer (or the editor) even tried. Ladies and Gentlemen, I smell the foul stench of nepotism afoot here. Or something equally heinous. (28 mississippi) I mean if I had tried to pitch this to an editor( 29 mississippi) I'd have been laughed out of the room. And another thing . . .

30. Okay I'm over it. No, really I am. The above is just an example. This applies to all the things about publishing that bothers us aspiring novelists.

The advice usually given is: Don't let this (and other things) bother you. This is sour grapes. You're probably wrong.

While this is good advice, I think it skims too quickly over our humanity. There is a difference between having a reaction and having a reaction control you.

I say "Let it out." Get upset. Tell your spouse or your dog all about how unfair it is. And then GET OVER IT. Getting over it doesn't mean it's still not true. It does mean that you won't let it stop you from trying. It does mean that from a goal perspective, you won't assume you're gonna fail before you start.

Getting Political . . . on second thought...

2009-12-02T17:04:00.002-06:00

I have a lot of opinions. Most of them not about writing. (One of my dream jobs would be to have my own radio talk show. I know: So would everyone else right.) But I've been hesitant to get into certain topics here because I actually thought my novel would be published by now (positive thinking not arrogance) and I didn't want to alienate any future novel buyers.

It's just makes sense to me that if you're in certain lines of work, you probably shouldn't talk about politics because it could alienate customers, listeners, readers, viewers, etc. (i.e. I no longer watch Letterman for this very reason.)

But I wonder if I'm wrong about that. I would still read Koontz even if I disagreed with his politics. That is as long as his novels weren't just transparent conveyors of indoctrination. Letterman interjects his politics to the detriment of his jokes. If he didn't do that, I'd still watch.

I'm curious as to where most stand on this. Would you care? Would you be hesitant to buy a book from someone you disagreed with? What about someone who went really far like declaring all Christians stupid or openly campaigning for abortion?

I'm sure everyone has a limit. I surely wouldn't buy a novel ---even a great one--- from a Klan member. Where do you draw the line?

Writing Christian Fiction is harder . . .

2009-11-28T17:19:00.003-06:00

...than secular.

(At least the way I define it.)

The supposed common knowledge is that making it in Christian music is easier than secular. I doubt if that is true. Struggling secular bands may see less talented musicians "making it" in Christian music and come to that conclusion. I think what they are missing is that's it's a different dynamic (or skill set). The audience will see through a pretender. You still have to deliver a product that meets or exceeds audience expectation.

I think the same is true with Christian fiction. In fact, given the deeper survey of thought afforded by a novel, it would be exponentially harder to pass one's self off as a the read deal just to, as the misconception goes, travel down an easier road to publication.

I had assumed that the writers I'd meet who don't write Christian fiction, would assume the same thing: That it is probably easier, and therefore look down upon me.

So it was a pleasant surprise to hear the response of the first novel writer who asked me the question: So what do you write?

After hearing my response, he said, and I paraphrase: "That must be really difficult. I just write, but you have to keep theme in mind from the beginning." I think he even said something about admiring me for even trying. I was like "Wow. He gets it."

I have several novel ideas that would never be published by a Christian publisher. Those ideas definitely seem easier to plot out and roll with.

Right now I'm struggling with developing the Christian novel ideas I have. I say it's harder. What do you think?

And they call me the extremist . . .

2009-11-05T15:39:00.004-06:00

I really don't get the pro-abortion stance. My only assumption is that it's a self-delusional rational for birth control for people who want to be irresponsibly promiscuous.

You either believe a fetus is a human being or you don't. If you don't then you have to decide when it becomes a human being.

But beyond that, I've always been mystified by the following phrase: I'm against abortion except for rape, incest, or the life of the mother.

**(Okay, I'll concede that I'd have a hard time letting my (if I was married) wife die instead of the baby, so let's skip that one. )

Why does a child born of rape or incest rate lower than the rest of us? What a horrible thing to say. Can you imagine what those who were born of that circumstance must think when they hear this argument?

The current trend is to characterize those who believe "rape and incestuously conceived children are innocent and deserve to live" are extremist. Wow.

Why does the value of a human being diminish based on the actions of others or inherent circumstance? Sounds like early mid-twentieth century Germany to me.

Responding to comments . . .

2009-10-30T07:19:00.002-06:00

Sorry I took so long . . .

Great comments on the last two posts everyone. I'll respond here since I took so long.

To Kay's comment:

"The idea of more money is always appealing. But I'm thinking that maybe if I say that my writing is a ministry I should back that up by perhaps contributing all proceeds to a ministry or something. And make that known to those who purchase"

This is exactly the point I'm trying to make. Now, keep in mind, I'm not saying authors should or should not do this. I'm saying that this should be the attitude of those who want the publishing houses to make decisions based on evangelism and not profit tempered with principles or values.

sidenote: quote from Randy Alcorn that might be of interest to you, Kay.

"Most writers won’t sell a lot of books. I encourage those who do to give away most or all of the royalties to God’s kingdom. Recognize they belong to Him, not to you. Because all the royalties from my books go to missions work and other kingdom causes, I’m not tempted to spend on myself the millions of dollars God has graciously entrusted to me. Instead, my wife and I get to give them away and to rejoice as we make eternal investments in God’s powerful work around the world."

Notice he said those who sell a lot of books. You have to eat first right? I know what you're thinking: "God will provide." Maybe he provided you with just enough books sales to eat.

XD, I think we're in agreement. It's not an either-or thing. It depends on individual declaration. On the fiction delivering a message thing, I did say it does happen. But as an evangelical vehicle in the Christian discipleship connotation of the word, it has little results. Not that they're not important results, but a very inefficient vehicle. I say trade in that clunker.

Todd, I still say if an artist makes 10 million/year off his work and wants to be lauded for his work being a ministry and then he goes off and buys a $10 million home, a private jet, three Porsche's, etc., he is out of step with the will of the Lord. One particular Christian artist loves to get awards for begging me to give $5 to third world starving kids while he flies off in a private jet after his concerts spending more in 4 hours than I make all year. He could fly first class and save $40 thousand. You can feed a lot of kids with $40 thousand.

The widow who gave the penny gave more than all the others combined, because she gave everything she had. I don't think that means everyone has to give everything they have, but they should give more than the sliding scale equivalent of chump change. A multi-millionaire giving $500 is not the same as me giving $500.

Last post - furtherized . . .

2009-10-13T16:18:00.002-05:00

Thanks for the great comments on the last post everyone. I hate to admit it but . . . you too, Todd. Actually your comment beat me to the punch on the furtherization of my positation. And, Kay, there is certainly alot of room for overlap.

For instance, let's take a Third Day concert. Third Day considers themselves a ministry. But, . . . you have to buy the ticket. Personally, I have no problem with that because I equate it to passing the plate at church. Someone has to pay for the electricity, the water, the pastor's salary, etc.

They haven't to my knowledge declared themselves an evangelical outreach. With that said, happenstance evangelism does occur at Third Day concerts. (Probably more than all of Christian fiction combined.) In essence, evangelism is sold. But indirectly. This is kind of how I view publishing. I wrote my novel for everyone, but the reality is that since I'm pursuing publication through CBA, it will be read mostly by Christians. Christians who will be paying for it.

** The rest of this post was gonna be about the declaration of ministry that Todd covered in the comments of the last post. So we'll move onto something else.

This may be a little off the path, but I am a little perturbed by those who claim to be a ministry, be it in preaching, music, or writing, and then live a lavish lifestyle all the while basking in the glow of accolades for doing God's work. One particular musical artist lives in a mansion and routinely mentions his Porsche. One takes a private jet home after his concerts. All this while asking me to send $5 to a pet charity.

Kind of like a politician who wants credit for his "service" to his country. As though it's a sacrifice. Let's see, you get fame, glory, power, riches, and then we're supposed to serenade you with thanks for your "public service." Thank you Mr. politician for screwing the little guy, cheating on your wife with the intern, all while giving yourself a raise, full health benefits and a pension for life, lying and stealing all funded by the taxpayer. You truly are a hero.

Disclaimer: During the writing of this post, the author was suffering from low blood sugar and was thus subject to nonsensical ramblings.

For Sale: One Savior.

2009-10-09T14:13:00.003-05:00

I've said before that I don't see any great potential of Fiction as a conveyance of evangelism. That's not to say that fiction can't evangelize or hasn't. In fact, I'm quite sure it has and I hope mine does. But I would say it is a very inefficient means.

With that said, I am always puzzled by those who lambaste the CBA publishers for not treating themselves as an evangelical outreach ministry. They are not. They are a business which supplies a product, subject to a set of chosen standards, to a market of individuals who make certain requirements of them. They succeed or fail based on their ability to satisfy those requirements.

The puzzling part for me is that an author who wants their fiction to be an evangelical tool decides to get it published through CBA.

Why? --- Am I the only person who believes that evangelism should be free? So we want to reach people but only if they pay $14.99?

If you want your novels to be strictly an evangelistic outreach, then use the evangelistic model:

1. convince other Christians of the value of your project.
2. ask them for donations.
3. self-publish the novel.
4. GIVE IT AWAY.

Can you imagine if Billy Graham went to a third world country to preach but charged admission?

Some got it, some don't . . .

2009-08-23T21:17:00.004-05:00

Happy belated 13 th birthday to Teddy. That's 91 to you and me. (I'm sure that formula's not right.) Anyway, let's hear from the birthday boy:

Okay, don't hate me because I've aged beautifully.

You can do it, too. The secret is to eliminate all stress. Here's my patented 3 part plan:

1. Find a sucker, I mean human like Dayle. He does all the work and all I have to do is eat, sleep, and fetch the occasional tennis ball.

2. Perfect a pathetic look. That way even strangers give you stuff.

3. Two words: Twenty-four hour naps. ( I know it's more than two words, it's a joke. Silly humans. )

For a more detailed plan, send $24.99 to Teddy (That's all you need. The post office knows it's for me. Kinda like Santa Claus. )

A Disturbing Trend . . .

2009-08-09T10:04:00.002-05:00

It's bad enough that the American Left is hell bent on pushing God out of our country - lock, stock, and barrel. They don't care about fairness. Everything's fair game: revising history, school children who write essays about Jesus being their hero, even Christian charities which provide beneficial social services.

The media-entertainment and news- distorts, stereotypes, and maliciously impugns everything Christian. I could go on and on, citing examples, but you probably could too.

What's worse? A new breed of Christians are picking up the cause. This new Christian has decided that the stereotypical fundamentalist Bible Belt Christian represents the majority. But instead of trying to clear the misconceptions, they join the Left. I suppose they assume that if they prove to the Left that they are not representative of the maligned stereotype, that they will somehow be accepted. This is pure fantasy. It's divide and conquer. They will be next.

Sidenote:

I have seen a small hint of this in author interviews. Some of them can't wait to distance themselves from stereotypes. The most common I see is the rush to tell the interviewer how much they love to drink. We all know the Bible does not prohibit drinking. It only prohibits getting drunk. So why the need to profess. My theory is that they are really saying: "Hey just because I'm a Christian author, please don't think I'm really one of "them". I'm cool. I drink and everything."

Doing the Blurbs . . .

2009-08-06T18:49:00.002-05:00

I'm surprised by the attitude of some authors who've expressed a distaste for blurbs. They contend that they are ineffective and a waste of time. Among the reasons they give is that readers don't buy based on blurbs. For this and other reasons, they refuse to do them.

As a reader, I totally disagree with this. If an author whose books I've enjoyed (i.e. Robert Liparulo or Tosca Lee) shows up on the cover of a book I'm browsing, I definitely take a closer look. I still may not buy it, but it does get more than a cursory glance and will get the default buy over another book without those blurbs.

There are other good reasons to blurb. One is the simple fact that it doesn't hurt to get your name out there as often as possible. Inherent in a blurb to the reader is that the author considered these blurbers equal or superior to himself. Therefore, if an author's name appears on two books that a reader enjoyed, I assume they would do what I'd do: Check out that author's work.

Personally, after I'm published, I plan to do as many blurbs as I reasonably can. With a caveat that I want to keep my credibility with the readers. In other words, I won't blurb a book I don't like. I expect the same from the authors I plan to request blurbs from. If they don't like my book, I want them to say no. No hard feelings. If they don't have the time -- same deal.

There's another reason to do blurbs.

Imagine you're an author and you've had a single novel with modest sales and some guy you never heard of asks you to blurb his debut novel. You read it, like it, give it an honest blurb even though you may have had some problems with the quality of the writing. You then forget about it and go on to the next project. And then it turns out that guy's name is William P. Young and the novel is The Shack. Now your name and novel title are on 8 million books. What do you think that advertising is worth? Not to mention that he'd blurb your next novel without hesitation.

The arrogance of some published authors . . .

2009-07-31T20:25:00.003-05:00

The actual title: The arrogance of some published authors who don't sell a lot of books yet.

This author has confused published with successful. They have also confused published with all-knowing brilliance in the field of novel writing. Their acknowledgments and interviews have a narcissistic "I've reached the top of the hill because of ..." tone. I'd rather they have the philosophy that I haven't done anything until the reader says "ooh, I can't wait to read your next one."

Now don't get me wrong, I don't mind a published author teaching me the craft, what editors are looking for, or how to get published. But please wait until you're a bestseller before acting like one. Or better yet, don't ever act like one.

I won't go into anymore detail because it may be easy to figure out who I'm talking about.

Fortunately, not many authors fall into this category. Most of the authors I've met feel lucky to be published and they have an ongoing hope that their novels will be enjoyed by the readers. And they hope they have a chance to publish another without letting their readers down.

I stopped reading two novels this week. I couldn't finish them. One because of style, the other because of too many plot holes and inconsistencies. The latter was written by one of the types of authors I'm speaking of. He/she may be published, but he/she is not as great as he/she thinks.

The arrogance of the expert newbie . . .

2009-07-23T20:21:00.001-05:00

This is one of my biggest pet peeves in the community of writers. There are a few unpublished writers out there who have taken a class, read a book, or attended a conference, who now think they know exactly how to write a novel the correct way.

But the kicker is, they feel the need to impose their newly found "truth" on the rest of us. Even going as far as commenting on successful author's blogs in an argumentative fashion of how wrong they are when said successful author gives free advice.

Now I'm not against anyone expressing their views, but you might want to listen to an author who sells a lot of books. The readers are the true arbiters of "correct" writing.

I have seen this psychosis before. Someone discovers the secret of something, has an "Ohhh, I get it now" moment, and then develops an arrogant gestapo like attitude toward the rest of us dumb rubes who don't employ these truths.

There is no one way to write a novel. Editors culminate years of experience to offer valuable but sometimes flawed advice. The reading public, however, can be hard to pin down. They want a good story, period. It's up to editors to figure out what that means this week. They all admit that if they knew exactly what makes a bestseller, then every book they put out would be one.

I'm not supposed to say this, but . . .

2009-07-21T18:57:00.002-05:00

. . . it's true. I have read published novels that I believe were inferior to my (unpublished) manuscript.

I know, I'm treading on thin ice here and I'm in danger of sounding like a delusional fool or an arrogant jerk. But, don't worry I'm a realist. I have read many novels that are better, and in some cases (such as Tosca Lee's), far better than mine.

Furthermore, I'm not saying those novels I feel rank below mine are not good, or not well-written, or undeserving of being published. I know how hard it is and I'm happy for all of them.

So, should I ever say this? Should I just keep my opinion to myself?

I believe there's a time and place for everything. (Actually that's not true. That's a crazy saying. There's never a time and place for nazism or cruelty to animals for example.) I would never say this to anyone in a professional setting. No good can come out of it.

These thoughts are better left in your own mind or in private discussions with good friends who know you're not delusional or a jerk. But then again, do you really know what they think of you?

Done to death . . .

2009-07-18T19:01:00.002-05:00

I think it's time to put one (okay really two) specific tension raising device to rest. I think it all started with Dirty Harry (at least for me).

It's the cop whose boss issues him/her an ultimatum that he needs to straighten up his act or he's gonna find himself back on some lowly rookie beat. The other one is the fact that every cop finds himself and his/her partner in a battle with a rival duo in the department. (many times this rival is associated with the bad guys.)

These are done so many times that I'd bet if you took a poll, most Americans would believe this is as common in law enforcement as the stereotypical donuts.

I think this has been so infused in the American psyche that authors throw this in their novels subconsciously.

I know, I know, if you read my manuscript I'm sure you could find some similar device I've used that you could say the same thing for. That's okay. Remember, it's far easier to criticize others. : )

So, is it just me?

The king is dead . . .

2009-07-08T20:49:00.003-05:00

Now that my reign as Writer's Digest' Your Story winner is over, I assume it's kosher to post my story now.

"The Truth"

Marty slung his towel across his shoulders and jogged a few paces to catch up with Caleb. “So what did you tell your mom?”

“I told her the truth.”

“Man, she lets you do everything. How do you do it?”

“I never lie to my mom.”

“That’s cause he’s a goody two shoes.”

“Leave him alone, Joey.”

“It’s okay, Marty. Joey doesn’t bother me.”

Marty stepped closer to Caleb and whispered, “But he’s always picking on everybody.”

“Come on girls,” Joey called out. “We don’t have all day.”

The trail took the boys through the woods and over two hills until they came to a large rock formation. Joey climbed onto a small boulder. “Here we are. The pond’s on the other side. You girls ain’t scared of a little climb are ya?”

“Boy, I can’t wait to jump in. Is it deep enough?”

“Yes, Farty Marty, it’s deep enough.”

“Stop calling me that.”

Joey reached down and petted Marty’s hair. “Relax, Farty, I’m just kidding.” Joey dodged Marty’s swing. “Besides, you got nothing to worry about. You can handle that jump better than we can.”

“What do you mean?”

“You see me and Caleb, we got muscles. But you, well, everybody knows lard floats.”

Marty swung at Joey, but missed.

The trio found their way up the rock face until they reached a natural platform. They looked down in collective awe at the clear, jade pool below them. Fed by a small stream, it was surrounded by rock walls save for one side where the water trickled over a worn shelf which provided a perfect spot for laying out in the sun.

“Wow, this is great.” Marty started to climb down the path to the water.

“I thought you wanted to jump in.”

Marty stopped and looked back. “From up here? It’s too high.”

“Awwww, what’s the matter? You scared?”

“No.” Marty stepped to the edge and looked down.
“If you’re so brave, you do it.”

“No problem.” Joey took off his shoes and filled one with the contents from his pockets. “Let me show you girls how it’s done.” He raised his hands Olympic style and dove head first. He exited the water with a victory howl and climbed up the path as he watched Caleb jump in. “Okay, Farty Marty, your turn.”

“Stop calling me that!” Marty took off his shoes but left his shirt on. He stood near the ledge and stared at the distant water.

“I knew you couldn’t do it.”

“I can. Just give me a minute.”

Joey plucked him behind the ear.

“Quit it!”

Caleb climbed out of the water. “It’s okay, Marty. It’s not as high as it looks. You can do it.”

Marty tried to calm himself as Joey chanted. “Farty. Farty. Farty.”

“Leave me alone.”

“Farty. Farty.” Joey plucked Marty’s ear.

“Stop it!” Marty turned around and pushed him. Joey stumbled sideways and tripped over a rock, stumbling down the path to the rock shelf below. Blood pooled around his head.

Marty and Caleb stared at each other, unable to move. Caleb finally walked over and put his head next to Joey’s.

“Is he ?”

Caleb looked up at Marty, nodded, and climbed up the path.

Marty couldn’t stop his body from shaking. “It was an accident. I didn’t mean to do it.”

“It’s okay, Marty.”

“Oh, man, there gonna put me in prison. I’m going to jail.”

“No you’re not. I’m gonna call my mom and tell her what happened. It was an accident, that’s all. Don’t worry. She’ll believe me.” Caleb retrieved his cell phone and made the call.

“Is she calling the police?”

“Yeah, but relax. She’s gonna tell the police the truth.”

A moan broke through the silence. Marty looked down at the body. “He’s still alive. What do we do? What do we do?”

“Don’t worry. I’ll take care of it.” Caleb started down the path.

Relief washed over Marty. He stayed put and watched Caleb. “Is he alive?”

“Yeah, but barely.”

“What do we do?”

“I told you. I’ll take care of it.” Caleb carefully turned Joey’s head exposing the wound. He knelt beside Joey, held a large rock over him, and smashed it against his head.

Marty stumbled back a step. “What did you do that for?”

Caleb threw the rock in the water and brushed the dirt off his hands. “I told my mom he was dead.”

“So!”

“I never lie to my mom.”

Photos from the road . . .

2009-06-04T20:30:00.003-05:00

Arches National Park.

Golf in Moab, Utah.

Bridge in Sedona, Arizon.

Click on each to get a better look.

Conference notes . . .

2009-05-24T12:08:00.004-05:00

Last week, I attended the Colorado Christian Writer's Conference in Estes Park, CO. It was the third one I've attended and I've noticed some patterns.

(Btw, I do recommend this conference. The beautiful setting and relaxed atmosphere make for a more personal experience than the others I've attended.)

The authors and organizers are the real friends of the pre-pubbed writers. They are selfless and eager to help the un-pubbed get pubbed.

On the other hand, the editors and agents put up walls. They are stand off-ish and seem to try their best to avoid everyone except their colleagues. It's hard not to blame them. They know everyone there wants something from them so it's a different relational dynamic. I'm sure there is a small percentage of pre-pubbed writers who have acted in a way to cause this jadedness, but I wish there was some way to reverse it. Even if you don't want to pitch to one of them, it's hard to have a conversation because they are so on guard. But most seem to enjoy it, albeit uncomfortably, and contribute valuable info.

But there is a couple of them don't even seem to enjoy it. I wonder why they are even there. They either don't take appointments are announce they are not looking for anything. They then sit on a panel or two and then go home. I guess a free trip they can write off is incentive enough. Then again, I don't really know what their motivation is.

The classes are good, but it's information that can be easily acquired in a few hours perusing the internet. I am always shocked by how much my fellow conferees don't know. Not all of them mind you, I don't want to insult anyone. Just enough to make me wonder.

The critiques are always great. Anytime you can have successful authors read your work and give you feedback is a good thing. Even if you don't agree with everything they say, they know what they're doing and can contribute something to the whole of your knowledge.

Notes from the road - the wierd.

2009-05-21T13:20:00.002-05:00

Courtesy of my local library, I listened to a couple of Audio books while driving the 65+ hours during my vacation.

One of those books was Dekker's Boneman's Daughters. In the book, the killer likes to murder his victims by breaking their bones without breaking their skin-while they're awake. As I passed through southern and southwest Texas, where the story was set, I noticed a trend. The narrator would mention a location and then I'd see it. Now I'm not one given to be irrationally afraid, but driving alone on deserted highways can play its tricks.

I kept half-expecting the lunatic from No Country for Old Men to show up.

Notes from the road . . .

2009-05-19T20:16:00.003-05:00

Here's my thoughts from 8 days on the road:

Texas is BIG. I mean it's like a whole other country.

I thought west Texas and Arizona were flat. They are not. I'm stunned by how little water there is. Almost every river and creek I crossed from San Antonio through New Mexico to Arizona to Utah to Colorado to Kansas was dry.

It was 104 in Phoenix. Hot right? Not really. I mean it's hot, but it ain't South Louisiana humid hot. It felt like maybe 91. If you don't believe me, come down here in August.

A word about the Grand Canyon: Wow!

Utah is beautiful and the food is surprisingly good.

I love Americans of Mexican heritage. The people of Vail, Colorado could learn a lot from them. It's the rudest, least friendliest place I've ever been.

Woke up Saturday at 6:30 am, attended conference until 2:30 pm, then drove straight to my sister's house -- 24 hr drive. Picked up my dog, drove home, Fell asleep at 10:45 pm. Awake for 40 hours straight. Now I know what it's like to be drunk. At least I think it felt the same. I've never been drunk. Okay, once when I was 15. But that was peach schnapps and orange juice and I just got sick.

Next post: conference notes.

The odd file . . .

2009-04-30T19:23:00.004-05:00

At a Christian writer's conference I attended, a fellow conferee asked the editor panel when they thought Christian erotica would become acceptable. To his credit, the editor who fielded the question said "Never" and went on to give a really considerate, thorough answer to a question whose answer seemed obvious.

Of course, she wasn't satisfied and went on to give the obligatory arguments. Sex is a gift from God. He invented it. It's part of who we are as His creation. So what's the big deal?

While all of these statements are true, she ignored the concepts of inciting lust, temptation, and coveting. Yes, it's still coveting even if the covetee is a fictitious character. And, she used up 12 minutes of valuable editor panel time on a topic that helped no one else in attendance.

Need to vent Sidenote: I had the good fortune to have this person sit next to me at this editor panel session. Despite all the empty rows, she sat 2 seats from me and plopped all of her belongings on top of my soft-cover briefcase. When the hour was up, I stood up to leave but her belongings were still on my belongings. I gave the obligatory slight pull and said excuse me. She was looking my direction, but didn't remove her belongings. I had no choice but to lift her things and place them on the next chair so I could retrieve my stuff. Of course, you probably know what happened next. She gave me a disgusted look like I'm the one who was in the wrong.

Bait and Switch . . .

2009-04-28T20:48:00.003-05:00

Most of my acquaintances and friends are shocked when they first discover that I don't believe in evolution. Even when they all know I'm Christian.

The reason: Because these same people consider me one of the most brilliant people they know. Seriously. Go ahead, ask them . . . I told ya.

So successful have the evolutionists been, that to many, it seems impossible that any educated person could not believe it.

Usually, after the initial shock, they proceed to bring up a supposed aspect of evolution. This is normally when I have to stop them and inform them that they are actually talking about natural selection which does happen. They give me a perplexed look and I have to explain.

Similarly, I once asked my biology professor to give me his best example of evolution. He did. I then informed him that he gave me a great example of the alteration of physical traits of a specific species due to changes in the ecosystem of that particular species, but he did not give me an example of evolution.

He looked at me perplexed and said "Huh?"

That brilliant response almost threw me, but I managed to collect myself and explain to him that Darwin's book was called the Origin of Species, not the theory of the mechanism behind which physical traits are slightly altered.

In other words, the only thing evolutionists can prove is that certain species over time produce generations that are slightly taller, slightly recolored, have slightly shorter or longer appendages. It is, HOWEVER, the same species. If anyone believes they are different species, then they have to believe that me and Shaq are different species and that makes them a racist -- bammo -- I win the debate. It actually gets worse. According to the standard of what constitutes a species, then me and anyone of you with blond air are not the same species.

The pro-evols have almost completely succeeded at blurring the line between Micro and Macro evolution. They have convinced the masses that by proving natural selection, they have proven the invention of species through natural selection. NOT THE SAME THING.

There is no evidence whatsoever of a species being created through minute changes in the physical traits of a parent species. There are no transitional fossils detailing these minute changes---only huge leaps which are backfilled only by conjecture and false hope. Think about it. If it takes millions upon millions of years of minute changes for a one species to become another, then all of those minute changes should be seen in the fossil record. They are not. Even Darwin said, that without the eventual discovery of these transitional fossils, his theory falls apart.

Their tactic has become so successful, that many Christians have adapted the "God used evolution to create the earth as know it" theory. That way they can believe in creationism and prove they are intelligent because they believe in evolution at the same time. The problem with this line of thought is that it limits God. God doesn't need billions of years of a mechanism which bows to the natural laws He created to create the Earth as we see it. He can just do it. He's God. He transcends His own laws. Including time.

So cheer up Christians. Not believing in evolution does not mean you're ignorant. In fact, you can prove how intelligent you are by not falling for the bait and switch.

A Gift From God. . . Really?

2009-04-23T18:50:00.006-05:00

If I have a gift for writing (big IF), I'm not sure I can claim it's a gift from God. Let me explain:

I once had an "acquaintance" who was an okay singer. She wasn't great, but good. She once told me (after singing in church and getting the usual pats on the back ) that her singing was a gift from God.

I thought about that statement and responded differently than most people do. (not to her personally) My first reaction was Why? Why would God do that? It didn't make sense to me. If it were a gift from God, why wouldn't He have made her better? And this path of thinking usually goes on to say that God grants us all gifts. Like pastors who try to pass off cleaning the church as a gift. That's not a gift, that's a wonderful person who has a spirit of servanthood toward his/her God.

One thing many don't seem to realize is that every time you say something, you're also saying the opposite or the reverse inference. For instance, when Mrs. Okay Singer tells someone that her voice is a gift from God, she is also saying "God chose me over you. That's right, He chose to give me a gift that brings me personal glory and adulation and you the gift of cleaning my toilet." Furthermore, since she was also beautiful, she was also saying that God made me beautiful and talented and he chose not to do that for you.

Another problem with this thinking for me is that the secular world is full of talented people. Did Satan give them those gifts? If God is giving gifts in fields such as music, writing, art, etc, for the purpose of winning the lost, wouldn't Christians be leading all music sales and book sales and movie sales. Doesn't happen except for the occasional exception.

Here's what I think. Most of our so-called gifts -- we're born with. God is looking for a willing heart. If you're willing, no matter your level of talent or skills, He can use you and your abilities to move mountains or affect one life. Which is the same as moving a mountain.

One thing to remember is that we're not destined to win the world for Jesus. The Bible says that only a minority will choose to accept Christ.

Disclaimer: The girl in question cannot possibly be identified. I didn't give enough info. And, it might not be a girl.

Disclaimer 2: This is one of those things I don't have completely figured out. My thoughts on this are subject to change or amendment. If you think I'm wrong, please comment. I'd love to hear other thoughts on this.

Double taxation . . .

2009-04-20T20:19:00.002-05:00

I just finished doing my taxes. No, wait, I did my taxes months ago. That's right - I just finished signing up for the CCWC writers conference. It actually felt the same. There were mailings and forms and deadlines and re-reading of instructions and I wasn't even sure they got the forms or if I filled them out right and not to mention . . . Wait . . . just got confirmation. I knew I did it right.

I've decided to take the long route to get there. Louisiana to Estes Park, Colorado via the Grand Canyon. 40hrs of driving.

I'm gonna hit 3 places I've always wanted to go. The Grand Canyon, Arches National Park, and The Rocky Mountain National Park.

I'm still worried about the attitude, I mean altitude, at Estes Park. 8,000 ft. I had enough trouble in Colorado Springs at 6,400 ft. Kids were pointing at me, adults were laughing at me. I even had to take breaks when I took the elevator. Keep in mind, I live 4ft below sea level. So if you go or see any pictures from the Conference, I'll be the guy in the background gasping for air.

I'm boycotting Burger King . . . that'll scare 'em

2009-04-15T20:58:00.004-05:00

I've hated the new BK ads since day one. (By new I mean the series of ads over the last few years that have taken a severe departure from the tone of the ads I grew up with.)

I really hope these ads are not working. If they are, this does not bode well for the future of our society. The new SpongeBob ad is way over the line for me. What really amazes me is that the people in control of Spongebob would allow this. Hmmm, maybe I'll boycott them both.

The only problem is: I already don't eat Burger King or watch Spongebob.

Doh!

A couple of things . . .

2009-04-04T22:43:00.003-06:00

I'm still waiting for my copy of Writer's Digest so I can see my story on the page.

Now I don't mind the wait, but the members of my writing group already got theirs last week. It's supposed to hit shelves today, but my local BAM still doesn't have them. The library carries it, but they still don't have it either.

I attended some really nice sessions at the Jubilee Writer's Conference at my local library today. I rarely hear something I haven't read on line before, but it's still good reinforcement. I am a little surprised when a fellow attendee is shocked to hear something that should be common knowledge to anyone seeking publication. Maybe it's just my nature. I've done so much research I could give most of these lectures myself -- which one day I hope to do. Looks like a lot of fun. I have to stop myself from running up there and grabbing the mic as it is.

And, finally, I'm a little upset about something. I just counted all the nuts in my can of Deluxe mixed nuts and contrary to the promise on the package --- it contained 51% peanuts. Excuse me, I need a minute to myself.

A blessing counted . . .

2009-04-01T19:09:00.004-06:00

We are blessed to have a great library here in my home town of Houma, LA. Not only is the Terrebonne Parish Main Branch big and beautiful (the picture doesn't do it justice), but they put on a lot of great events. (It's so good, people don't want to leave -- there's a cemetery right behind it.)

For example, last year I attended a performance by a virtuoso classical guitarist for free before he went off to Carnegie Hall.

This week is the annual Jubilee Writer's Conference. The cost: $25. In attendance: well known authors such as Heather Graham, F. Paul Wilson, (Louisiana's own) Deborah Leblanc and many others.

On a different note, next month, I'll be heading to Estes Park Colorado for the Colorado Christian Writer's Conference. I'm sure you want to send me a check to help me pay for the expenses, so send me an e-mail and I'll give you my address.

In just a few weeks . . .

2009-03-04T17:42:00.003-06:00

My short story "The Truth" will be published in Writer's Digest. With a strange portion of something called "Luck" (and if I haven't made a faux paus of deduction), Stephen King and Jerry Jenkins will be on the cover. This will no doubt result in higher sales and reads of the magazine.

I must admit: It's a great thought that something I've written will appear in a magazine featuring the aforementioned on the cover. Okay, so it doesn't exactly make us colleagues. I get that. But what it does mean is that the only short story I've ever written which also has the distinction of being the first thing I've written that will be published, will also be the most widely read. Possibly, more than anything else I'll ever write. Even if I have a good career.

Maybe I'm making too much of this, but I am jazzed that so many will be reading my work. (please note: this is the first time I've ever described myself as being jazzed.)

Do you hear what you're saying ...

2009-02-25T13:00:00.003-06:00

We've all heard the pro-abortion argument presented in kinder ways. No, it's not pro the killing of fully developed unborn babies - it's pro-choice. Sounds better doesn't it? After all - who could be against "the right to choose." My prediction is that this moniker, after it garners enough negative connotation, will also be replaced by something even less innocuous.

This happens in politics quite often. Usually these titles mean something almost the opposite of what they say. For example, if you see an ad paid for by the citizens for the fair treatment of puppies organization -- this is probably an organization that thinks puppies make a delicious snack.

Corporations do this all the time. Anytime, you see a company with a name like: Environmental conservation services of America, this company no doubt pollutes the environment is some way. The title is a cover. It's good PR, but it's ultimately malicious dishonesty.

But, back to abortion.

They use phrases like women's rights, a woman's right to choose, and a woman should be able to do what she wants with her own body.

The problem is that none of us have that right - completely. It's against the law to fill our body with illegal drugs, sell our body for sex (except in Nevada), sell our organs, ... I'm sure I could think of a few more.

I guess my point is: If you're going to take a side, at least have a good reason.

Learning the hard way. . .

2009-02-11T21:22:00.003-06:00

I've been reading a lot of novels lately trying to learn whatever I can from each author and each reading experience.

Trying at once to notice how authors handle certain situations while simultaneously trying to think like a reader again.

In an earlier post, I shared my aggravation at a novel that was mis-represented by the backcover copy. It ruined the experience for me, but I decided to give the author another shot. After all, that could have been a marketing decision or just an author buckling under the pressure to hype the novel. And, the novel itself wasn't that bad. This author is successful for a reason.

So, I did some research and ordered what is considered this particular author's best. From the moment I started reading it, I loved it. Well written, great characters, and an interesting "sort of" twist that I didn't see coming until late in the book. I couldn't wait to recommend this book to my friends and order the author's other works. Simply put - I couldn't put this book down. Until the end, when I actually threw it across the room. (I know. It surprised me, too.) I was actually angry.

I will never recommend this author to anyone, nor ever read him/her again.

What crime did the author commit? The main character did something completely against his character. (excuse the repetition) The character that had been developed throughout the novel would never have done what he eventually did. Now I know that people often do things against their nature, but this was not the time or place.

I believe the author did this in an attempt to achieve a more literary effect. The old "don't let everything end so nicely" routine. While I admire that when done well, here it is obviously forced. The same effect could have been achieved by other means. Having a protagonist lose something during his journey can give the story a richer depth than just having everything work out perfect. But here, the cost is too great. The particular character who suffers in this novel gains nothing from it, nor deserves it, nor did the author give any good reason for it - which may have helped.

As I have discovered through those who've read my novel, readers invest a lot of emotion in the characters. I vow to never do this to my future readers. (positive thinking)

I wish I could name the novel and the author, but I just wouldn't feel right doing so publicly. Sorry.

Update to last post . . .

2009-02-03T14:39:00.003-06:00

For those of you chomping (champing for Nicole) at the bit to read it, Writer's Digest has posted the story on their website.

To read it go here: http://writersdigest.com/article/yourstory-16/

The results are in . . .

2009-01-29T16:38:00.003-06:00

. . . and I am honored that the editors of Writer's Digest have chosen my story as the winner of the Your Story Contest #16.

My short story "The Truth" will appear in the June issue. If you want to read it, get your subscription now. (Or buy the June issue when it comes out.)

I've made the cut . . .

2009-01-20T17:31:00.003-06:00

In the Writer's Digest Your Story contest.

If you're not familiar with it, each issue gives a writing prompt with which, those who dare, are invited to write a short story or 750 words or less. The editors then pick 5 finalists to be voted on by the readers. The winner's story is then published in the magazine.

I have never entered one of these before and I'm honored to say that my first try has been chosen out of over 700 entries. The voting ends on January 28th. Wish me luck.

Overselling . . .

2009-01-16T11:38:00.003-06:00

Marketers always oversell to some extent. Some of it is forgivable. But when it goes so far that it's mis-represents the product, it can be a problem because of the take-away disappointment felt by the customer.

As such, back cover copy on novels usually oversell to some degree. But when it promises lemonade and you get motor oil, well, that can be a problem.

I recently read a novel, which wasn't bad, by the way, that did this. The back cover promised something that was not in the novel. This left me sort of not liking the novel, which actually wasn't bad - it was just mis-represented. I felt a little cheated.

Book Review - Forsaken

2009-01-02T10:15:00.005-06:00

Taylor Pasbury, a beautiful former Secret Service agent, has started her own security business. Her first client is Simon Mason, the world’s best know televangelist. Mason has been receiving threats from Muslim extremists and must face the most difficult decision of his life, choose between his love for God and the love of his daughter.

If you look to the left, you'll find in my list of "favorite Christian novels so far", Something That Lasts by James David Jordan. Forsaken is a solid follow up leaning more toward a commercial style than STL.

Though the heroine, Taylor Pasbury, is a familiar type-character - (the beautiful but can handle herself against any would-be rapist type) - Jordan does a really good job of fleshing out the character, giving the why's and how come's to support his choices.

Much like STL, Jordan explores Christian principles and faith issues with layered depth, avoiding the mistake of letting his characters give the easy, pat answers or responses. Life is usually more complicated than fiction. And, there are always consequences.

Forsaken is a well-written and well-paced novel I believe most would enjoy. I also highly-recommend Something That Lasts. To see my review, click here: Something That Lasts - Book Review.

The bigger picture . . .

2008-12-30T20:32:00.003-06:00

I hate to paraphrase the Bible, but I haven't been able to find a verse I came across a long time ago. I'm not sure of the exact wording but it makes a point that goes something like this:

"If our hope is in this world, we are the most miserable of all men."

I am saddened by how many Christians don't understand this. Defining our lives by so-called successes of this world is the biggest problem facing Christianity caused by Christians. This view leads many to prosperity preaching, the word of faith movement, give to get tithing, and wish-list prayer.

Our hope lies in the next world - Paradise restored. Throughout the ages, Great Christians have lived entire lives in poverty, sickness, and successive tragedies. They viewed this life for what it is: a momentary furlough from Paradise caused by the stain of sin. Their trials are not punishments from God for not being good enough or Christian enough.

I could go on and on but here's a couple of people who've said it better:

From Mercy Me's Bring the Rain,

Bring me joy, bring me peace. Bring the chance to be free. Bring me anything that brings You glory. And I know there'll be days, When this life brings me pain, But if that's what it takes to praise You -- Jesus, bring the rain

To see this personified, read this post by Author Mike Dellosso:

The Gift I Received

In conclusion . . .

2008-12-03T20:58:00.006-06:00

For me, the perfect example of Christian fiction is:

Stephen King's Pet Sematary.

It deals with death, resurrection, and the separation of the body/soul unit. And, it never gets too preachy. I'm sure King touches on these issues enough to spark that universal human turmoil which leads to a re-evaluation of one's place in the world and eventual decision to either accept the gift of salvation through Christ or . . . not.

Okay, I think I 've made my point.

My real answer is Demon - A Memoir by my friend, Tosca Lee. ( Btw, whether she likes it or not, I'm going to start calling her my friend since I'm mentioned in the acknowledgements of Havah. :) ) Besides being my all-time favorite novel, Demon embodies both definitions at once. For believers, it reaffirms our story while providing a deeper understanding and appreciation for God's grace. For non-believers, it forgoes the sales pitch and simply lays the truth bare for all to see and judge on their own accord.

Her newest novel, Havah, is a superb follow-up and another perfect example of Christian fiction.

Defining Christian Fiction Part Deau

2008-12-01T21:05:00.002-06:00

If you haven't read the last post yet, go ahead. I'll wait. Hmmmhmmhmm.

Good you're back.

Before we get to the novels that fit my ideal definition, lets go one step further. (Or is it farther?) There are two types of Christian worldview novels:

The first is Christ identified worldview. These are novels about Christians, that mention the word Jesus, but don't necessarily provide Biblical exegesis. Christian readers identify with the characters and the situations sparking a connection--therefore a reaffirmation of one's faith. Donna Fleisher's novels are a wonderful example of this. These novels minister to the faithful, but don't often evangelize. Some seem not to regard ministering as important as evangelizing. Personally, I believe pastors are just as important as evangelists.

The second is a Christian philosophy worldview. These are novels penned by Christians who strive to keep their faith or at least, the word Jesus out of the story--narrated through the prism of overarching Christian tradition. These novels are hard to identify. Mainly because Christian philosophical worldview encompasses most of western civilization and a shared portion of Eastern religions. For me, the value of these types of novels is in providing a counter to the garbage pervasive in TV, books, and movies. A great example is one of my favorites: Ted Dekker's Thr3e. A great novel which explores a philosophical point, but does not point to Christ or even to Christianity for that matter.

Back to my main point. For ME, the perfect example of Christian fiction is . . .

To be continued . . .

Defining Christian Fiction . . .

2008-11-29T23:01:00.002-06:00

What is Christian fiction? . . . Actually, I'm not gonna go there. It's been done to death. There are varied answers to this question. Some valid, some not.

So, what I'd like to do is explore what it means to me while simultaneously respecting and not disregarding the opinions of those who disagree.

By the way, there is an easy fix to this quandary. Why don't we just create another category called "Christian worldview fiction". For example, this category would include some of my favorite writers and novels-everything by Robert Liparulo, roughly half of Ted Dekker's works, and even a couple of Dean Koontz's novels. Loosely defined, it would include any novel written by a professed Christian without the effect of providing the characters or reader with a ministerial or evangelical point.

So I emphasize: TO ME, Christian fiction must point to Christ. Without pointing to Christ, a Christian worldview novel could just as easily be considered a Jewish worldview novel. Without Christ, who happens to be JESUS, the two worldviews presented in a non-specific thriller plot-line, for example, would be indistinguishable.

This is not to say that CWN's are not important. I assume this false assumption is why so many get offended.

MY goal in writing Christian fiction is to take a complex issue and convey it, through story, in a way that makes it more understandable and/or reaffirming. (You can tell it through sermon, or show it through story.) This is what I hope I've done with my novel.

I've read many Christian novels that fit my definition. Including . . .

To be continued . . .

Trying something new . . .

2008-11-23T22:49:00.005-06:00

I don't really appreciate (read disdain) modern art. A yellow dot on a green background is not art. There has to be some skill involved.

I'm also not a big fan of Impressionism as a whole, but some of it is very good. Same for abstract. Here's my attempt at the two.

I call it Exodus.

It also looks interesting turned upside down.

Abstract is great for decor, but I consider Expressionist Abstract to be true art. I call this one Specter.

All storms are different . . .

2008-09-13T14:27:00.002-05:00

Terrebonne Parish took a direct hit from Gustav causing 100% loss of power and wind damage to homes and businesses. There was, however, virtually no flooding.

Ike hit Galveston. But because of the trajectory and storm surge dynamics, we got hit again. Early estimates are that 10,000 homes have been flooded in Terrebonne Parish alone. (my apartment was spared) Not to mention that the sustained 40-50 mph winds with gusts up to 60 knocked out power for many again and hampered recovery efforts.

I assume everyone knows that the Louisiana marshes and wetlands are eroding at an alarming rate. Since the Mississippi River no longer is allowed to flood the wetlands with the tons of silt it now carries into the gulf, those silts no longer rebuild the coastal marshes. The natural protection they provide is virtually gone. I've seen it in my lifetime. Vast marshes of my youth are now open water.

I'm afraid it's time for drastic measures. Either we allow the Mississippi to change course as it now would without our levees, or allow controlled flooding to allow the silts to rebuild the marsh, or implement some other erosion aversion plan without which it may be time for a methodical withdrawal from South Louisiana.

Problematic because most domestic oil, natural gas, and seafood comes from Louisiana. Sidenote: Yes, we fish right next to oil platforms and capped wells and pump stations and all other structures dotted across the marshes. The fish love them.

Many people ask: Why live there? Move.

This is not as easy as it seems. What are homeowners to do with a home they can't sell, but still owe on? They can't default on their mortgage and buy a house somewhere else.

I'm back . . .

2008-09-10T19:21:00.003-05:00

Just got power (and internet) yesterday. That makes 10 days without power. Although I only had to endure 2.

Evacuated Friday August 29th. Spent 4 nights in a cabin in Gatlinburg. 1 night in a seedy motel in Tuscaloosa. 2 nights at my sister's house (they got power before I did.). 1 night at my cousin's house (had it all to myself). 1 miserable night in my apartment with no power - Keep in mind the low for the night was 82 degrees and 90% humidity.

We weren't allowed to return to our parish until Friday the 5th. A curfew was in effect until yesterday. No one allowed outside after 8:00.

Our parish is pretty much devastated. No flooding, though, because of the dynamics of the storm causing the storm surge to only reach 9 ft.

Most stores, including Wal-Mart are still closing at 6 p.m. making it difficult to replace all the food in every one's refrigerator which was lost due to the extended power outages. Not to mention the shelves are not exactly full. The supermarkets are only letting a few people in at a time due to the lack of staff. All I've eaten for the past few days are MREs. Which are pretty good, by the way. I finally made it inside a store today. Dollar General. I now have a bottle of mustard and ketchup in my fridge. Freezer is still empty. Excuse me, I still get emotional thinking of the approximately $150 in food I had to throw away.

The long lines at gas stations have finally ended. There are still long lines at the relief distribution centers.

Several out of state church groups are in town giving away hot meals. I don't have any hard numbers, but they seem to out perform FEMA every time. I don't remember them all, but the Arkansas Baptist Convention set up in the middle of town cooking food. The Mormons are giving out hygiene and clean up kits. Many others.

The state, under new governor Bobby Jindal, did a great job in not waiting for FEMA this time. They can mobilize faster and more efficiently than FEMA, although it was expensive.

One example: During a crisis, emergency commercial generators are needed to power hospitals, gas stations, grocery stores, etc. Instead of waiting for FEMA to approve leases for generators, which would have taken time for red tape, the governor authorized the purchase of needed generators to the tune of 20 million bucks. He's hoping to get reimbursed. But if not, we've got them for the next one.

Well, that's the highlights.

Oh, one more thing, I've had a horrible cold (or something) for the last 4 days and counting.

Almost final tally of my financial losses: $1000.00 and counting. I also missed a week of work.

Well, I gotta go, my MRE is almost ready.

I'm outta here!!!!!

2008-08-31T21:35:00.003-05:00

In case ya'll are wondering, I live in Houma, Louisiana (Terrebonne Parish). I'm sure everyone knows by now that Houma will likely take a direct hit from Gustav.

I evacuated Friday night to beat the rush. I'm in Gatlinburg, Tennessee hiking in the Smokies. Unfortunately, the resort I'm staying at charges for internet access so I'm currently in the parking lot of another hotel checking my e-mail. Is that ethical?

Anyway, I'm not sure when I'll be on-line again.

-dayle

Excuse me while I vent . . .

2008-08-27T18:00:00.006-05:00

Last month I hopped on over to a great new resource for Christian fiction writers: Christian Fiction Online Magazine.

After perusing the site, I entered my name in the book giveaway contest and . . . I won. The prize: Two autographed books by Robert Liparulo. Mr. Liparulo is a talented author and I was happy to not only win autographed books by an author I admire, but, also the fact that I won the inaugural Christian Fiction Online Magazine contest.

Well, yesterday I received my prize. An empty box with a postal note saying: received without contents. So, I called the post office, knowing it was an exercise in futility, and they said there is nothing they can do about it. That is how it arrived in their office.

Thus the problem with media mail. Although it's never happened to me before, it seems that at any point on its journey, a media mail package can be looted and simply forwarded empty to the recipient who has no recourse.

Of course, I hate to accuse anyone of stealing. I'm sure most postal employees are honorable hard-working people. And, it's quite possible something else happened. The books could have fallen out of the taped box, remained unnoticed, and swept away with the refuse.

But then again, someone other than me is probably the proud new owner of two autographed books. Maybe I'll check e-bay.

The flipside . . .

2008-08-03T19:50:00.003-05:00

It's not that men don't want to ask for directions, it's that women always think we're lost.

How many calories does typing burn?

2008-07-29T17:35:00.002-05:00

The darkside of writing: weight gain.

I once declared that I'd never weigh more than 140lbs. I was pretty successful at it, too. I made it to age 33 without crossing the 138 barrier. That's when I got into a car accident which put me on the sidelines for a year. I rocketed up to 145. No problem, I told myself. As soon as my neck healed, I'd be back on the basketball court burning up those calories.

But alas, fate intervened, and I decided to become a writer. I quickly learned that sitting behind a computer every spare minute of your life combined with anxiety-eating caused by trying to write a novel, is not conducive to maintaining a decent weight. I shot up to 174 lbs. Of course, it's all muscle so I'm not too worried about it. Except that the muscle around my mid-section has triggered a mass migration of buttons away from my pants.

The good news is that thanks to the internet, I've learned to sew on buttons. So if you think about it. The cause of my button problem was also the solution.

How's that for a paradox?

Note to reader: there is no point to this post. I'm just upset because I bought a gallon of milk yesterday only to find that it expired 13 days ago. The tragedy is that I always look at the date. But because this particular store has always been so good about having fresh milk on the shelf, I skipped that step.

So the point is: there are no shortcuts. Every step of the process is important. I think . . . uh, excuse me, I need a drink. The cold stuff. Milk.

One man's garbage . . .

2008-07-24T17:42:00.005-05:00

In a previous blog life, I wrote Christian fiction reviews. I did this mainly because of my frustration with the lack of honesty in Christian reviews. Something I find ironic. Of course, there's a big difference, albeit a fine line, between honesty and accidental cruelty.

For years, I subscribed to CCM magazine. The reason I finally cancelled (and never looked back) was due to the singular fact that I've never read a review of an album that wasn't deemed "groundbreaking", "a milestone", "a landmark achievement", "a solid effort", and so on, and so on. According to CCM, the Christian music industry managed to string together an unblemished record of great albums.

So, I had to learn to read between the lines. Basically, if the reviewer didn't come right out and say something like: "this is one of the best albums of the year", then the album was probably bad.

Reviews are what they are, but awards should be something else. Awards get to pick from the multitudes and almost guarantee not to "miss".

But . . ., the subjectivity of differing tastes, as usual, raises its ugly head.

Case in point, The Christy Awards. (I would love to win one of those, by the way.) It just sounds good, don't you think. But I digress.

I had once assumed that reading a Christy Awards winner would assure a good read. But, out of the five (that I know of) winners I've read: I loved two, I liked one, disliked one, and couldn't finish one.

*** disclaimer: I'm not saying they're bad books, they just didn't suit me.

But I was surprised that the award didn't equal a sure thing. It's hard enough to get published, much less win an award. In a perfect world, the transitive property should establish that any self-published book passed on by the industry, be inferior to an award winner.

Not true. My friend, Nicole Petrino-Salter's book, The Famous One (available at amazon), is a better read than two of those award winners. At least that's my opinion.

*** disclaimer 2: I'm not saying the award judges were wrong, I'm just pointing out the subjectivy of it all.

Individual tastes are a factor. This INCLUDES when an agent or editor rejects (or accepts) your manuscript. Don't take it personally. Award winners and published authors deserve congratulations. And pre-published authors deserve encouragement and respect.

But that also means that editors, agents, and awards judges deserve the benefit of the doubt when it comes to exercising their individual tastes.

Disagreeing with them does not mean their incorrect. It only confirms that we're all human.

epilogue: I quit reviewing books when I decided to try to become an author myself. I believe in professional courtesy. That's why those books will forever remain nameless. Except the two I loved: River Rising by Athol Dickson and Thr3e by Ted Dekker.

That is unless this post is a breach of courtesy, then I apologize. (Feel free to let me know)

Wanna win two books ? ? ?

2008-07-18T17:31:00.002-05:00

Go visit Nicole Petrino-Salter here:

Into the Fire

The evil of pack mentality . . .

2008-07-16T20:36:00.003-05:00

. . . not one of us lives a perfectly normal, ordinary life in every regard. We are, after all, human beings, each of us unique to an extent that no member of any other species is are different from others of its kind.

We have instinct but we are not ruled by it. We feel the pull of the mindless herd, the allure of the pack, but we resist the extreme effects of this influence--and when we do not, we drag our societies down into the bloody wreckage of failed utopias, led by Hitler or Lenin, or Mao Tse-tung. And the wreckage reminds us that God gave us our individualism and that to surrender it is to follow a dark path.

- excerpt from Life Expectancy by Dean Koontz.

It's great to see something I've always believed so eloquently stated by my favorite author. The idea that the congregation of man seems to be the most fertile soil of evil. . . . Or at best, willful ignorance.

What scares me is that I've seen this in churches. That dark magic moment when a preacher says something so outlandish that although it would, in a one-on-one conversation, immediately garner outrage and dismissal, instead, under the credibility brought by the pulpit and the assumption of acceptance of the flock, receives applause and blind acceptance.

Losing my religion . . .

2008-07-12T23:08:00.000-05:00

That ShamWow guy is driving me crazy.

A Birthday Lesson . . .

2008-07-01T20:32:00.003-05:00

On Sunday I officially became an old man. That's right, I hit the big 3-7. I'm sure all ya'll gifts are on the way via UPS, but just in case anyone forgot, tomorrow at work there will be steaks and potatoes (and chocolate cream cake) in my honor. If you're in the area, stop by. But only if you have my gift. That is, if you know what's good for you. Capiche?

I found out today, via Creflo Dollar, that the reason I will get published will not be because of my talent or hard work or sticktuitiveness, it will be simply because I've said so. Apparently, the words I use have great power. Whatever I say - will happen. In fact, that truth was apparently the whole point of the gospel. Not that whole sanctification through faith in Jesus Christ and acceptance of His sacrifice on the Cross thing.

So here it goes: "I will be published." Oh wait, "And I'll make lots of money."

Well it's a cinch now. I'm just gonna sit back, pop open a root beer, and wait for those royalty checks to pour in.

Wow! Just think of all the time I've wasted actually working on my novel, learning the craft, and ugh, rewriting. What a shame.

Well, I gotta go. Time to throw all my "Writing - How to" books in the garbage. Wait a minute, I'm not using my powers. "Books. Get in the garbage. ......Now!"

Oh well I guess it takes practice.

Tuesdays with Todd . . .

2008-06-24T00:01:00.002-05:00

Delfeayo, Conquistadors, Pharisees, and Wisdom

It is so easy to overlook the wondrous things around us. Though they are always there, or perhaps because they are always there, we take them for granted. This spring I have been on a conscious quest to make some time to appreciate at least a few of these things.

In the past few months I have discovered Franklin, St. Francisville and the Clark Creek Natural Area and rediscovered Grand Isle, Mandeville, Abita Springs, Ponchatoula, and several other relatively nearby locales that I have long taken for granted.

In keeping with my motif of getting out and doing things I have not done before and discovering and rediscovering my own back yard, I did something this weekend that I had never done before.

Just up the road, about an hour away, lies New Orleans. The wealth and diversity of cultural and epicurean delights to be found there are virtually endless. Now, I have lived between one hour and one half hour from N'awlins all of my life, and yet had never been to a jazz club. Can you imagine living that close to the home town of Harry Connick Jr., Wynton Marsalis, Irma Thomas, and multitudes of other notable musicians, a place where you can find world-class jazz pretty much any night of the week, any week of the year, and never having taken advantage of that?

Now, in my defense, I just wasn't raised that way. Having grown up in a pentecostal church, in my mind jazz clubs were smoke-filled, tawdry, dens of iniquity wreaking of cheap cologne and stale booze, ... or cheap booze and stale cologne. And you could definitely make the case that there was little reason for a good Christian man to be in that environment. And there are many places in the French Quarter like that, places there would be little reason for me to patronize.

But, there are also some real gems to be found. I, and a couple of dear friends, found just such a little nook and enjoyed a wonderful evening of music provided by a member of one of New Orleans' premier musical families, Delfeayo Marsalis, and his band.

The scene I beheld was exactly NOT what I expected or had long envisioned. Instead of drunks trying to hit on my friends, I saw nice, polite people of many ethnicities enjoying very sophisticated music. I saw an older couple tenderly holding hands during a particularly romantic tune with a long lulling trombone solo. The mood was happy and the music was great. Musically I heard intricate melodies, subtle phrasing, complex chord constructs, mathematical rhythms, and a joyous energy that ranged from frenetic to genuinely romantic in the best sense of the word.

Preconceptions are very rarely accurate. Whether they be about people, places, or things, they usually mislead us ... and you know what they say about when we ass-u-me ...

Sometimes we have a gut reaction upon meeting someone that turns out to be exactly right. Other times, we make assumptions or sweeping generalizations, sight unseen, based upon no information, or second hand information, that lead us to faulty conclusions and preclude us from experiencing all of the good things that God provides for our enjoyment. I was recently speaking with a friend about these things. We ended up exchanging cliches like "don't throw out the baby with the bath-water" and "eat the fish, but spit out the bones". Sometimes cliches stick around for a reason - they encapsulate a fundamental truth about life.

Unfortunately we, as Christians, are sometimes the very worst regarding this. In our vain attempts to portray ourselves as what we believe appears spiritual and holy, we end up like the Pharisees, believing that holiness is derived by not going certain places, not eating certain things, and not interacting with publicans and sinners. This leads to an arrogance that is very unappealing to the very people we say we hope to win to God's Kingdom.

I am reminded of some of the first missionaries to the new world.. On the whole, they simply trashed the local religions. This stands in sharp contrast to the way Paul used the Athenians belief in an "Unknown God" as a starting point to bring them knowledge of The One True God. I believe that we make the same mistake when we simply trash other's way of life. It would be more profitable to start where they are and show the way from there.

For instance, it seems to me that starting with the beauty, emotion, and mathematical structure of music and working toward God from there, is much more in keeping with Paul's methods and much more effective than simply saying repent, you evil man with your devil music!

Of course, as with all things, there is balance in this. I am not saying that we should all get out and start going to clubs and that if you don't you're a Pharisee! I guess I'm just saying that we should not simply dismiss things out of hand. Maybe we should give a little thought and some prayer as to what things we do or do not do, and why we do or do not them.

This requires wisdom. Happily, this is something that, when asked for, God gives liberally.

Where's Dayledo?

2008-06-19T17:47:00.003-05:00

What I've been doing instead of posting: (I know ya'll are wondering.)

1.) working on my re-write.
2.) trying to buy a house.
3.) eating blueberries.
4.) working on a proposal to officially change the spelling of bologna to baloney.
5.) trying to figure out where that strange smell is coming from.

So once again, I apologize to those of you who depend on my once semi-daily musings to get through the drudgery that is your daily life.

Theater curse . . .

2008-06-11T21:36:00.004-05:00

I went to see Indiana Jones Monday. During the coming attractions, someone hit me in the head twice with what I assume were small pieces of candy. Without thinking I turned around and said to the dark forms behind me, loud enough for everyone to hear: "Whoever's throwing things better quit." Of course a hush fell over the crowd. . . . The throwing stopped.

Side note: Really good movie. And, something happened that I've never witnessed before. At the end of the movie, the audience applauded. Strange.

A couple of years ago, I went to see Spiderman 2, (terrible movie). I went during the day several weeks after the movie released to avoid the crowds. Four punks sat behind me and in the span of about one minute, although conveniently seeming accidental and followed by an apology, kicked the back of my chair four times. After the fifth time, I'd had enough and informed them that it better not happen again. They didn't kick my chair again, but they talked the whole time. Three people answered their phone and had a brief conversation.

I went to see Dekker's Three (pretty good movie). I traveled two hours to Baton Rouge to find a theater showing it. To my luck and Dekker's dismay, there were only five people in the theater. Of course, the curse struck again. Sitting in the same aisle as I, in a mostly empty theater, a mentally disturbed looking woman proceeded to answer her cell phone and engage in a twenty minute conversation at a volume required given the fact that the rest of us rudely refused to ask the manager to pause the movie. ( sidenote: I didn't say anything to her given her mentally disturbed look.)

I could go on and on, but it is clear that the dark forces of the universe are aligned against me and my quest to occasionally attend a movie.

As far as I'm concerned . .

2008-06-03T02:03:00.000-05:00

Blue Lagoon should be declared child pornography and ripped from the shelves, the director and producers should go to prison for peddling child pornography, and Brooke's parents should be arrested for child abuse.

She was fifteen years old.

Before you disagree on the child abuse part, watch the movie Pretty Baby starring 13 year old Brooke Shields, then decide. (All of the above goes for that movie, too.)

The Double Sin of Pyramid Preaching . . .

2008-06-01T10:15:00.004-05:00

Besides getting rich off the TV tithing of poor people, the real crime of these scammers is the diversion of funds away from the duty of Christians: To give to the poor.

The Bible teaches us to feed the hungry, clothe the naked . . . basically give to those less fortunate than us regardless of our own situation.

But I don't see this burden in the Christian community. What I see is a burden for Christians to prosper their churches or their pastors. How much money does it cost to build the 80 ft. crosses that are becoming popular in front of the mega-churches. How much did it cost to build the Crystal Cathedral? How much food could that have purchased? Clothing? Rent? Transportation? Health care?

How much does the sets on TBN cost? The globe behind Joel Osteen's pulpit?

Far be it for me to speak for God, but He must be displeased to watch us spend millions of dollars supposedly given to Him, on monuments to our own egos.

I believe God would rather my church spend less money on decor and more on food and care for the poorest among us.

Don't get me wrong, we're all guilty of this. I played golf yesterday to the tune of $50. I could have and maybe should have given that money to my local food bank.

This is my main problem with jewelry. Instead of someone buying a $5,000 watch, did it ever occur to them to help someone pay for an operation? Help roof a poor person's leaking house? Help an elderly person or a child pay for their medication?

I am often reminded of the closing scene of Schindler's List. Oscar Schindler is grieving over the fact that although he saved many Jews from the ovens, he could have saved more. He starts listing the items he should have exchanged for lives. In one example, he throws his watch to the ground and yells out the number of lives he could have saved if he could have parted with it. The true reality of the value of things compared to lives became a vivid reality to him.

Is there anything in your life that you have valued over obeying God's command to give to those without? (obviously, you don't have to answer here.)

What does your church do with your money?

A More Personal Memorial Day . . .

2008-05-28T22:08:00.003-05:00

I don't have much time, but I wanted to share this.

I met a woman from Korea today. The topic of her native country came up and I just happen to know a fair amount about Korea (primarily the war). So after a brief conversation, she mentioned her hope that one day North and South K would become one again and the topic of the war came up.

So I mentioned my uncle who had fought in Korea. After I shared what I knew of his experience there, she asked me how she could get in touch with him. She wanted to thank him for fighting for her country and for giving her and her family their freedom.

Unfortunately, my uncle died a couple of years ago.

I've heard stories of this gratitude before. Several years ago, another Korean veteran who had traveled back there a couple of times since the war told me that as soon as anyone would find out that he fought in the war, they would thank him.

I say if you're planning a trip to Paris - go to Seoul instead.

With regards to my last post . . .

2008-05-22T20:52:00.003-05:00

Please note that I'm hypoglycemic and a co-worker brought a jar of Nutella to the office. Oh yeah. Good times.

A few weird facts about me.

1.) I wash my spatula between flips.
2.) I wash my hands about 300 times a day.
3.) I think the so-called supermodels are fairly unattractive.
4.) I have never watched a single episode of Baywatch. And, I think the swimsuits they wore were kind of silly.
5.) When it comes to bullfights, I pull for the bull.
6.) I think dancing is stupid.
7.) I think jewelry is stupid. If it takes an expert with a microscope in his eye to tell the difference between a diamond and piece of broken glass, I say why spend the extra money.
8.) One of my dreams is to be a comedian.
9.) I once went 14 hours without a shower.
10.) I think lists of weird facts are stupid.

Did I mention he brought another jar of Nutella to work today?

One Year Bloggerversary . . .

2008-05-21T00:01:00.000-05:00

What? Nobody bought me a cake?

When I started this blog one year ago today, my goal was to finally write down all the incredibly brilliant points about, well, everything that I, much to the good fortune of those around me, make everyday. And, yes, you faithful visitors have, unfortunately, witnessed only a SMALL portion of my genius.

However, I have discovered that I'm a better talker than a writer. The reason is that I'm very poor at preparation and organization of thoughts. My phenomenal brain seems to work best off the cuff and without the speed bump that is my incredibly fast, but ultimately inadequate typing speed. For some reason, typing throws my brain off rhythm.

No problem again, you say. Just record yourself while you're in the zone. Tried it - didn't work. You see my incredible brain knows that my voice sounds horrific on tape. So when I try to record myself, it goes on strike. All of a sudden I'm stupid. In fact, if my brain gets anymore independent, I'll have to call it Hal and figure out a way to shut it down.

With that said, I have concluded it is time for me to shut this blog down.

Just kidding. :)

Here's my prediction for the next year:

1. I'll get an agent
2. I'll get published
3. You'll buy it, read it, cry, laugh, and tell all your friends about it.

predictions for the next 3 years:

1. Daylemania will sweep the nation.
2. T-shirt sales alone will surpass one-hundred-dollars.
3. I'll tell Oprah her show isn't big enough for me.
3. My dog will write a tell-all book and appear on Oprah where he'll destroy my career when he reveals that he actually wrote my books through telepathy and I didn't even upgrade his tennis ball with all the money I stole from him.

I Hope This is True . . .

2008-05-16T22:35:00.002-05:00

Young writers must learn the difference between ambition and pretention. I am convinced that the very best writing is born of humility; the truly great stuff comes to life in those agonizing yet exhilarating moments when the artist is acutely aware of the limitations of his skills and the poverty of his philosophies, for it is then that he strains the hardest to make the most he can from the imperfect materials and tools with which he must work.

-Dean Koontz, From How to Write Best Selling Fiction.

Speaking of Moms . . .

2008-05-11T00:00:00.005-05:00

This is the only picture I have of mine. (In case you're wondering, I'm the baby.)

Unfortunately, I have no memory of her. She died when I was three.

This is the story as best as I remember the telling. We pulled into a gas station. (Everything was full service then.) The attendant lit a cigarette and the fumes caught fire. He then pulled back with the nozzle in his hand spewing gas into the open window and the inside of the truck went up in flames with all five of us in it. My father, while his legs were on fire, pulled each of us out. Unfortunately, on my mother's side of the truck, the broken door was tied shut with a rope. She couldn't get out and thus had severe smoke inhalation. From what I understand, she could have survived but the doctor (or nurse) gave her the wrong medicine or dose or something. She died in the hospital.

As for the rest of us, we all had 2nd and 3rd degree burns, with my dad and sister getting the worst of it. Long hospital stays and multiple skin graphs. In fact, my earliest memory is of a nurse holding me down in a tub while I'm screaming in pain. My scars are still visible - the burn-distorted outline of my 3 yr old hands can still be easily seen.

Now please understand, I'm not trying to bring anyone down on Mother's Day. My dad did a great job filling both roles and, well, let's be honest - I turned out fantastic. :)

What I am trying to convey is the fact that life can change at any moment. Sometimes tomorrow doesn't bring a chance to make up for today. Sometimes tomorrow doesn't even come.

Contentment can be an elusive virtue. It's easy for us to focus so much on our "small" problems that we fail to see the bigger picture. But the same is true for our "big" problems. Sure, I could have turned into a bitter person - full of resentment and mad at God for letting such a terrible thing happen. But what good would that do? Instead, I became a Christian. And since I am a Christian, I believe my mom is still alive. And what would she want me to do? Live my life wallowing in despair? Or, live my life to the fullest - happy and content? The answer is obvious.

No, I didn't blame God or get mad at Him. For my hope resides in God, who so loved me that He gave His only begotten Son. You see, even God suffered the loss of a family member. Before He conquered death, Jesus died on the cross. I truly believe that when we do pass from this world to the next, the scope of eternity will make all of our problems in this life, this twinkling of an eye, seem unimportant. Even my mother's death.

My life will now be Stephen King free . . .

2008-05-06T22:01:00.003-05:00

At least when it comes to buying his books. I may read them, but I'll never give him a dime. (not that a multi-millionaire cares.) And, I'm proud to say, that I've never purchased a King book, and now, I never will.

Why? Yesterday, (I assume), King pulled a John Kerry - suggesting that our troops are in the military because they can't read and didn't do well enough in school. Well, that would be news to all the troops who requested books - including King's - to be sent to Iraq and Afghanistan. I even sent a couple of his novels that someone donated.

The fact is our troops actually test higher than the national average. They are not dumb slobs who couldn't cut it in the real world. Dummies can't operate military equipment or perform complex operations with the precision that they do.

Now, I'll admit that maybe I'm being too hard on King. Maybe he's referring to the few Americans who did join for the chance at a paid education and a small paycheck because they didn't do well in school. (by the way, what's wrong with that?) But he didn't say that. If that's what he meant, he should have qualified his statement. And even if it were true, keep it to yourself until our troops come home.

I wonder if he's even met a solder or taken the time to visit Walter Reed. I don't know, but I'd guess probably not. He's too busy living his dream life under the very protection that our troops provide.

It's well established that King is on the extreme left. In one interview, he was railing against the Bush adm. for taking away his rights by illegal wire-tapping. When the fact is, the policy only allows for wire-tapping Americans who are receiving calls from known terrorists. In other words, the govt. is monitoring terrorists and when the terrorists call an American, they no longer have to hang up. They're not listening to you talk to your agent or check up on your money, S.K. They don't have the time. Now I don't hold it against King for being a leftist. That's his prerogative. But he crosses the line when he insults our troops.

I don't own a King book, but if I did, I would have probably thrown it away (among other actions I won't mention) this morning when I heard his comment. Maybe I'll buy a used one at a garage sale just so I can . . . Never mind.

What do you think? Am I overreacting?

Here's one of my sloppier works.

2008-05-05T21:18:00.000-05:00

Or, as I like to call it: Impressionism.

It was my first try at using a more pastel laden color scheme - which became en vogue a few years ago.

I should read the Bible more often . . .

2008-05-04T08:46:00.002-05:00

A while back I posted An Argument Againt Arguing. This morning, I came across this verse from 2 Timothy 2:24-26:

And the Lord's servant must not quarrel; instead he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Those who oppose him him must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.

We miss you George . . .

2008-04-24T22:46:00.002-05:00

“What students would learn in American schools above all is the religion of Jesus Christ.”

-George Washington [speech to the Delaware Indian Chiefs May 12, 1779]

They have been warned.

2008-04-21T20:21:00.005-05:00

I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel--which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned!

Galatians 1 6-8

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.

1 Timothy 6 6-10 (partially)

What do you think?

2008-04-17T19:59:00.004-05:00

Agent Rachelle Gardner held a two-part contest on her blog. Stage one required the submission of a first line.

Congratulations to Richard Marbry who won with the following great line: Things were going along just fine until the miracle fouled up everything.

Stage two required using Mr. Marbry's line (or one out of a few honorable mentions) to write the first 300 words of a novel.

Congratulations to Lea Ann McCombs for her winning entry. Very Good. And Congrats to you Mark for honorable mention.

Now back to me - While I didn't enter stage 1, I did enter stage 2. Something about Richard's line got me going. And, while my entry is not nearly as good as Lea Ann's, I was really happy with the results.

My Entry:

-----Things were going along just fine until the miracle fouled up everything. There was just one problem: Deaver didn’t believe in miracles.
-----Time to investigate.
-----He immediately ruled out human error since he was the only human involved. Oh, it’s not that he considered himself infallible. But his rare past mistakes came at those few moments of the day when he couldn’t stay focused on the task at hand. Those few instances when the need for food or sleep required some of his attention. Drawbacks of being stuck in the body of an imperfect species. Fortunately, that would soon change. After his transformation, he wouldn’t have to worry about such mundane tasks. Unfortunately, for now, he’d have to deal with his present reality.
-----Back to the investigation.
-----Though he supposed the wind could have gusted, he doubted that explanation. He had monitored the wind speed up until the moment. One to three miles per hour without exception. Not enough to cause a problem. Besides, considering the day’s weather, that possibility, if it occurred, could also be deemed a miracle.
-----Since he had personally calibrated his equipment and re-checked them several times in the three hours prior to the moment, he also ruled out the possibility of their failure. No, there must be another explanation.
-----Maybe the girl had something to do with it. A sixth sense, maybe? Did she know to turn out of the bullet’s path in that minute moment of time? To turn just enough to make sure the bullet hit her barrette? Is that why, in that moment, she ¼ smiled?
-----He picked up his rifle and focused the scope on her hospital room window. Can you feel my presence? The drapes opened revealing her form.
-----She turned and looked directly at him. And smiled.

At the moment, I want to continue writing this story. But, it's tough to judge your own work. So, what I want to know is: Would you keep reading this? Does it intrigue you? Is it weak? Any other thoughts?

p.s. Remember - It's impossible to hurt my feelings.

In case you're wondering . . .

2008-04-15T18:13:00.003-05:00

I am feeling better but I still have a bad cough. Nothing like the throat and sinus problem I had for almost two weeks.

I never went to a doctor growing up. When we got sick, which was rare, we sweated it out. Orange juice, chicken noodle soup, and the sofa.

I remember one time when I got a bad case of poison ivy which caused my face to swell so much my nose almost closed up, I had to sweat it out. No medicine, no itch cream. Only aspirin and aloe vera plants. I don't blame my dad - that's how he grew up. He didn't know they had all them new fangled drugs out there.

As a kid, when I was told that a friend went to the doctor, I thought the worst. If he had to go to a doctor, it must have been really bad. Nope - I found out later - people go to the doc even for colds. Really!!

( Hey Ryan, You were at the doctor's office so much, I can't tell you how many times I thought you were going to die. Then later I found out your experience was normal, not mine. )

Okay, I'm starting to babble, so I'll sign off now . . .

And the winner is . . .

2008-04-06T11:25:00.002-05:00

Not me, but I did have my first name-calling this weekend at the Jambalaya Writer's Conference. Honorable mention (which means I came in second or third) for novel excerpt (1800 words).

Unfortunately, I missed it because I've been ill for the past five days. So I'll have to wait another day to hear my name called in recognition for my work - which as you writers know, means a lot in this solitary endeavour.

Christianity is not a religion . . .

2008-03-30T22:00:00.003-06:00

"Moses could meditate on the law; Muhammad could brandish a sword; Buddha could give personal counsel; Confucius could offer wise sayings; but none of these men was qualified to offer an atonement for the sins of the world" -R.C. Sproul.

Christ alone offers eternal life through his sacrifice. Religious freedom applies to religions and Christian denominations when it comes to the application of rights and laws.

Christianity is beyond religion. It is not man-conceived, but God ordained. It has no moral equivalent or philosophical competitor.

Contrary to some popular belief, Christianity is not a set of principles to live your life by. It is not simply an owner's manual to govern the human existence. It is the road map to salvation, the receipt for the gift of grace, a love letter written to you by God.

Treasure it, Revere it, Embrace it, but do not belittle it by calling it a religion.

Local landmark . . .

2008-03-25T20:47:00.005-06:00

This is a small, very old church on Deadwood Road a few hundred feet from where I grew up.

This is the church where they filmed the movie The Apostle by Robert Duvall.

The church is actually sitting on a parcel of drained swamp surrounded by a levee. During heavy rains and localized flooding, the graves, sometimes, pop out of the ground. As a teenager I rode my bike there to find two had floated across the street and came to rest on some cypress knees along the bayou where my dad said they did submersion baptisms when he was a kid.

In New Orleans, in some of the older graveyards, bones have reportedly "seeped" to the surface. The older caskets were not placed in the concrete tombs. So, when the wood rotted away, the bones were free to move with the water table.

Happy Resurrection Day ! ! !

2008-03-22T19:49:00.009-06:00

Hi. My name is Teddy.

Dayle can't blog right now because he's taking a break from working on his manuscript to eat dinner.

I just wanted to wish you all a happy Resurrection Day.

I would also like to thank y'all for all the kind words regarding my mother's recent passing. For those of you curious about what Chelsea looked like - she looked like me except with white fur and more wisdom in her face.

By the way, I'm a lot older than I look. Believe it or not, I'm 12 years old. But I've got the heart of a puppy. That's the key to staying young. You have to believe that you are young.

Anyway, I have to go now. Dayle's almost finished eating and he'll need the computer back to continue working on his manuscript (or so he says).

Till next time,

Teddy.

Rose-colored glasses . . . Part 2

2008-03-22T11:33:00.004-06:00

Okay, back to where we left off. The '07 ACFW in Dallas.

I had a great meeting with agent Y representing superagency X. The meeting went twice as long as it was supposed to. Very good back and forth. I was told how well I represented myself and how well I summarized my manuscript. Agent asked for my proposal and . . . well, I've never heard from her. Still this was not a rejection. Either I will eventually hear from her. Or, my manuscript doesn't fit the vision of this agency.

Agent B didn't waste much time asking for a full. AB told me my first page passed the test and AB definitely wanted to see more. I still haven't sent AB my full. Why? Because I'm not sure we're a good fit. Result: No rejection.

Editor D seemed promising. Again, meeting went real well. D asked for a proposal and full manuscript. Two months later, D informed me that my book wasn't a good fit for D's House. Okay, this is as close to a rejection as I've received. But still, all it meant was that my manuscript wasn't a good match.

Also, I couldn't miss the bright side. I was a conference newbie who received 5 requests. Not too shabby. I've yet to meet with someone who said: "Your way out of your league. Don't send me your stuff."

More bright side: Editor C from my first conference asked for a full, sent me a page and a half of notes, requested a rewrite and re-submission. Which I'm taking a long time to do, but I am doing.

Alright, I'll confess, I'm not made of stone. I do feel the sting of rejection briefly. But we're talking less than a minute. But the sting is not based on any resentment against the reject-er. It's based on realizing I did something to cause it.

Maybe I...

sent it to the wrong publisher/agent.
didn't pitch it effectively.
pitched it before it was ready.
did everything right, but it wasn't a good match
etc, etc, etc.

Okay, it's possible that the agent/editor is a narrow minded idiot who passes up bestselling books from new authors everyday because they're just upset that they couldn't sell the book they've been working on for the past 12 years, . . . But I seriously doubt it.

My advice, for what it's worth, is to look at rejections in a brand new light. Consider them information sources. Put on your special rose-colored glasses and maybe you'll see the real message behind the form letter.

Rose-colored glasses . . .

2008-03-21T09:15:00.003-06:00

I would like to propose a new way of looking at rejections. I think the word "rejection" in this context is a misnomer. You are not being rejected. Your manuscript is not being rejected. There is always another meaning. The key is to discover that hidden meaning.

So far, I've been pretty fortunate. I don't have a drawer full of rejections. Let's review - Immediately after I finished my manuscript, I queried an agent. A big one in the world of Christian publishing. Two weeks later, my SASE arrived with the form rejection. Oh, it said something like "although your writing has merit, it blah, blah, blah". I would tell you exactly what it said, but I can't find it. Anyway, the point is I wasn't rejected - I was informed that I wasn't ready yet. So I decided to seek and devour all the information I could about novel writing. I also made another great decision - I sent my manuscript to Donna Fleisher to have it edited. I did not immediately query 20 other agents. I did not deem that agency to be blind to real talent.

I then attended the fantastic "Writing for the Soul" conference in Colorado Springs. All three interviews went great. All three editors asked for either a partial or a whole. I still haven't heard from editor 1, therefore no rejection has occurred. Editor 2 informed me that publishing house X has changed its focus to YA fiction - therefore no rejection. Editor 3 sent my manuscript back and asked me to do a minor re-write and send it back. (still doing that) Again, no rejection.

I decided to query an agent again. And, although I made her final cut of three out of 160+, she didn't offer me representation. But she didn't reject me. She was kind enough to send me her thoughts about my writing and I must say that for the first time in this journey, I disagreed with a professional. So, she didn't reject me, she just informed me that we weren't a good fit. She has to represent the kind of writing that fits her eye. That wasn't me.

SIDENOTE: A few other editors who asked for partials over lunch at the conference also said no. BUT, these were not rejections. You see, they came so fast, that I really think they just asked for a partial because of the uncomfortable environment. I mean, really, who wants to say no to someone over dinner? So, still - no rejections.

Fast forward to ACFW conference in 07. I met with two agents and one editor. Again, all meetings went great. Apparently, I make a good impression in person :).

But . . .

To be continued.

Growing up Arceneaux . . .

2008-03-18T20:40:00.005-06:00

For those of you (cough-Kay) wondering what this area of the world looks like, here are some pics COURTESY OF TODD.

I grew up surrounded by this stuff. Miles and miles of it. No kidding. 30ft behind my house and extending for miles.

Click on the picture to see the little ones. Good work, Todd.

It takes one to know one . . .

2008-03-17T20:52:00.004-06:00

I wasn't born with any musical ability or sensibility whatsoever. It took years of hard work, practice, and dedication to arrive at that place where playing a guitar is almost a subconscious event for me. I don't really have to think about it. I can do it with my eyes closed. I can even worship while playing without missing a beat (for the most part). But it wasn't always that way. And after all this time, I still can't tune a guitar by ear. I can, however, hear when it's out of tune.

When I first became the worship leader for my church youth group I wasn't very good. The lyric sheets (with the chords written above the words that indicated the correct timing) had to be in front of me or I was lost. I had to listen very intently to the other musicians and the singer so I wouldn't lose my place. Despite all of this concentration (which explains all the dumb faces I used to make), I made multiple mistakes per song. The result: no one noticed (I actually got compliments). No one noticed except my fellow musicians and the 1 or 2 musicians who happened to be in the audience that is.

However, even though the general public did not notice my mistakes, no record company on the planet would have signed such a sloppy musician as I. I would have had to prove my technical ability before I would have been allowed to waste tape on their dime.

For example, I went to a concert by classical guitarist Peter Fletcher. Outstanding musician. At one point in a particular selection - he messed up. So I thought. But he did it on purpose. Or shall I say with purpose. He allowed the strings to vibrate against the fret. Usually this is a mistake. But he did it while doing a walk down with the top (bass) string creating a wonderful effect.

See my point? If I do it, it's a mistake. When he does it, it's genius.

How does this apply to writing? Even though the audience can't hear (read) your mistakes, they're not the ones running the studios (publishing houses). You have to prove your technical ability before they allow you to vibrate the strings (break the "rules") with purpose.

Of course, all of this is very SUBJECTIVE. Some really good writers will never get published and some not so good writers will. This is the nature of the human element. And, contrary to popular belief, editors are human, too.

Is this fair? Maybe not, but it is the reality.

On the other hand, one of the mistakes really great technical musicians make is that they play to impress other musicians. So the result is usually over the heads of the general listening public. This is why they rarely produce a hit. The key is to evoke emotion. No matter how simple the song. The great ones can do both.

See the parallel? Story is king. A great story poorly presented is still better than a bad story perfectly executed. But it probably won't get you published.

It's a conspiracy I tell ya . . .

2008-03-15T21:03:00.003-06:00

I know Dean Koontz has a twisted sense of humor. If you don't believe me, read his answers to questions 1, 5, & 10.

I'm starting to think Dean Koontz has been playing an even bigger and more elaborate joke on the publishing industry. You see, in some of his recent books, he has been doing things he doesn't normally do.

Exhibit A:

In these examples from The Darkest Evening of the Year, he's putting his dialogue tags before the dialogue. I must say that I found this very distracting. I've checked his older books. He didn't do this then.

She says, "You know what's the worst thing?"
Brian said, "You always carry two thousand bucks?"
He said, "You aren't seriously telling me that Seeing Eye dogs can drive."

Exhibit B:

Look at these dialogue tags from Velocity :

Ned said impatiently, Ned explained, Ned clarified, Ned confirmed, Ned agreed, Ned grumbled, Billy added, Billy judged, Billy assured him, Ned replied, Billy conceded, Steve protested, Lanny objected, Billy suggested, Cottle said anxiously, Billy said plaintively.

and my personal favorite "Science fiction," Jackie emphasized.

Because of his past track record, I'm starting to think there's a method to this madness. Like he's thumbing his nose at the experts who say you shouldn't do these things.

The experts usually say that most writers do the above 'don'ts' due to a lack of confidence in their writing. I have never agreed with this charge. Most new writers do this because that's the example they've seen in the books they've read. They see it in a novel and consider it accepted practice. Not to mention it's a good way to get the word count up.

It would be ridiculous to say that Koontz is doing this because of a lack of confidence. That's almost too absurd to even think about. If it were his standard operating procedure then you could just use the "when you sell a hundred million books then you can do whatever you want too" argument.

Personally, I think he's just having fun.

Dayle the adventurer . . .

2008-03-13T17:06:00.006-06:00

More pics from Clark Creek.

Pics by Todd.

Backpack by Ryan.

Higher than it looks. ---->

Todd getting artsy.

Bigger than it looks. That's me in the upper left. --->

Well . . . it ain't the Smokies

2008-03-10T21:45:00.011-06:00

but it does have its own charm.

Three things I learned while hiking in the Clark Creek wildlife management area in Mississippi this weekend:

1. Pictures still don't do nature justice.

2. Either a miracle has occurred or I'm no longer allergic to Poison Ivy .

3. I look fat when I put my hands in my pockets. ------>

Speak of the devil . . .

2008-03-07T15:48:00.003-06:00

I took this one in North Carolina at Chimney Rock Park.

The dangling rock formation is called Devil's Head. (click on the picture to get a better look)

To me, it looks like one of those creatures in Lord of the Rings.

Blue Ridge Parkway hike

2008-03-06T22:26:00.009-06:00

I never thought I'd find myself here. ---->

<---- It's at the top of that outcropping.

Looking back at the car. ---->

Your novel's only got one shot at . . .

2008-03-04T22:25:00.006-06:00

making a good first impression.

I don't like having a story set up for me. You know those novels that have three of four paragraphs telling you the backstory or setting up the real opening. I'd rather that info be threaded in while the opening scene is taking place.

Before I even considered learning anything about writing a novel I knew one thing: The opening has to be good. In fact, the only thing more important than a good opening is a good ending.

But on the other hand, some of my favorite books have okay openings. Especially when it comes to the first line. Silly fact about me - - I'm obsessed with opening lines. (When I'm in the bookstore I often grab a few books off the shelf and read just the first line.)

The truth is: you don't need a great first line - you need a good opening. This could mean the first line, the first paragraph, first page, or first chapter.

Consider these examples from some of my favorite books:

From Demon by Tosca Lee : It was raining the night he found me.

Not too spectacular. Brown and King recommend never starting a sentence with "It". "Was" is also discouraged. And, we have a weather report - albeit a short one. The second sentence is even worse. But the opening chapter is good. The result - one of the best books I've ever read.

From Thr3e by Ted Dekker: The office had no windows, only electric lanterns to light the hundreds of spines standing in their cherry wood bookcase.

Well that's just awful. In fact, the whole first paragraph is awful (for an opening). A single lawyers lamp spread its yellow hue over the leather-topped desk. The room smelled of linseed oil and musty pages, but to Dr. John Francis it was the scent of knowledge.

Okay. . . So far this is not a good opening. But look at the next line. The line I would have chosen to be the first.

"Evil is beyond the reach of no man." Now we're getting somewhere.

Despite the awful first paragraph, the opening chapter is fantastic. The result - one of the best books I've read.

Now on to my all-time favorite novel. Watchers by Dean Koontz.

On his thirty-sixth birthday, May 18, Travis Cornell rose at five o'clock in the morning. To quote Homer Simpson: Boring. But don't stop - keep reading the first paragraph. He dressed in sturdy hiking boots, jeans, and a long-sleeved, blue plaid cotton shirt. He drove his pickup south from his home in Santa Barbara all the way to rural Santiago Canyon on the eastern edge of Orange County, south of Los Angelas. He took only a package of Oreo cookies, a large canteen full of orange-flavored Kool-Aid, and a fully loaded Smith & Wesson .38 Chief's special.

Now that's an opening paragraph. The first few lines are used to set up the impact of the last.

So it seems my obsession with great first lines is a little misplaced. It's the opening that has to be good. Be it first line, paragraph, or chapter. (Of course it's great to have all three.) But even a great first line is nothing if the opening scene is not good. So actually, you need to have a good opening scene. Just don't waste too much time getting to it.

I went through my "To be read" stack and found this opening from Dean Koontz's Odd Thomas:

My name is Odd Thomas, though in this age when fame is the altar at which most people worship, I am not sure why you should care who I am or that I exist.

Now that's an opening line.

With all of that said, this is all very subjective. Let's look at what could be Dean Koontz's best novel in the deep, rich, literary thriller sense. From the Corner of His Eye. It does everything "wrong". The first chapter (half a page long) is told from omniscient pov and is just an info dump. The second chapter (three pages long) has no action. But it does give some rich characterization. The third chapter (9 pages long) is one of the best "opening scenes" I've ever read. No one will put that book down after that third chapter.

These three chapters are not connected and use different pov's, but the first two set up the third and add impact to the true "opening scene".

The result = one of the best books I've ever read.

**sidenote: Koontz almost always does something I'm told you shouldn't do - he switches tone. He almost always has two storylines running simultaneously and they are usually juxtaposed between good and evil, the miracles of good humanity and the relentless detructive force of the evil side of mankind.